INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Photonic Hardware Intern (4-12 Months)

CompanyCiena
LocationOttawa
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJuly 20, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The intern will support the lifecycle of Photonic Line systems hardware through design, development, and lifecycle management. Key tasks include writing automation scripts for testing and performing laboratory work.
Internship Type
full time
Salary Range
CA$25 - CA$34
Company Size
10588
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
Ciena (NYSE:CIEN) is the global leader in high-speed connectivity. We build advanced networks to support exponential growth in bandwidth demand—empowering our customers, partners, and communities to thrive in the AI era. With unparalleled expertise and innovation, our networking systems, interconnects, automation software, and services revolutionize data transmission and network management.
About the Role

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.

The Opportunity:

4-12 month internship starting September 2026

Position Overview:  

Ciena's customers run many of the largest data communications and telecommunications networks in the world, connecting hundreds of millions of users and devices. The Photonic Hardware team is responsible for the entire lifecycle of hardware for Ciena’s Photonic Line systems from design, development, product introduction, and continual lifecycle management (LCM). Technologies of focus include Erbium-doped fiber amplifiers, Raman amplifiers, ROADMs, Wavelength-Selective Switches, Optical Channel Monitors, OTDR, etc.  

This role will involve writing automation scripts for testing as well as laboratory work. This role is fully on-site at our Ottawa campus.  

Must Haves:  

  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills (background in Engineering, Math, Physics, Computer Science, etc.)  

  • Must have strong programming skills in Python and/or Matlab  

  • Motivated self-starter with strong written and oral communications skills.  

  • Able to collaborate effectively in-person as well as remotely.  

  • Curiosity  

The Nice to Haves:  

  • Knowledge of physical optics  

  • Knowledge of optical networking and relevant technologies  

  • Experience in a hardware lab environment with common electrical and/or optical test equipment  

Pay Range:

The hourly pay range for this position is $25.00 - $34.00

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.

Key Skills
PythonMatlabAnalytical SkillsProblem-solvingWritten CommunicationOral CommunicationCollaborationPhysical OpticsOptical NetworkingHardware Lab Testing
Categories
EngineeringTechnologyScience & ResearchSoftware
Benefits
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)Company-paid HolidaysPaid Sick LeaveVacation Pay