WaveLogic Software Intern (Summer 2026)

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

How You Will Contribute As a Wavelogic software intern, you will push the boundaries of what is possible in optical network solutions. You will work alongside experienced professionals to ensure the reliability and performance of projects that play critical roles in our network solutions and help build upon our innovative technology. You will also challenge yourself and others by bringing enthusiasm and fresh ideas to new challenges and leading by example.

• Develop understanding and expertise in next-gen network solutions using optical transport and switching technologies like OTN, Ethernet etc.
• Develop embedded software skills to design, develop, validate and document advanced networking features and capabilities which are deployed in service provider networks.
• Trouble shoot and fix reported issues with embedded software, identify root cause, diagnose, debug and deliver robust timely fixes.
• Collaborate with multi-functional teams to design, develop and test the next-gen modem technologies.

The Must Haves

• Working towards completion of Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering
• C, C++ programming language experience
• Good knowledge of embedded systems, device drivers (e.g., GPIO, I2C drivers), Linux/RTOS Operating System knowledge, mutual exclusion, synchronization, interrupt handling, inter-process communication, memory management etc.
• Positive work attitude, highly motivated and an ability to seek out answers with a willingness to learn and work independently
• Strong verbal and technical writing skills
• Collaborates well in a team environment

The Assets

• Familiarity with datacom & telecom concepts such as DWDM, OTN, Ethernet, TCP/IP
• Low-level Real-Time Software/Firmware Development including HW bring up, interfacing with 3rd party devices.
• Ability to understand CPU Hardware architectures, Hardware Functional Specifications and Hardware Timing Diagrams
• Linux as a software development environment
• Design and development tools such as: Git, Eclipse, JIRA, Confluence, GDB, Yocto
• YANG modeling language and toolchains
• Scripting experience, Python, Go, BASH
• Automation and Test

Pay Range The pay range for this position is $27.00 - $38.00

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers students access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation pay as required by applicable laws.

At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.