NPI Hardware Co-op (8 month - January 2027)

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job. Connect with a career that matters.

Dig deeper into who we are, what we do, and what you can expect as a member of our team. Meet the people who are shaping the future of communication and explore the culture we’ve built together at CienaLife.

The Opportunity:

8-month co-op term: January 2027 - August 2027

The co-op student will assist in the development of test hardware, software, and sequences for new WL6e, WL6n, RLS, and Hyper-Rail products developed by the Ciena R&D teams. The student will gain hands on experience and lab work to design and debug hardware, and also to implement the software solutions in the automated test environment. A view of the development process will also help the student gain appreciation and understanding of the details needed to bring a concept from initial prototypes to production.

Below are some of the activities which the student will be involved in:

Design

• Implement software sequences and algorithms for testing electrical PCBs
• Execute test sequences on initial prototypes to understand correct operation of prototypes
• Aid in the design and development of test hardware solutions, including helping in PCB design
• Work with the Ciena R&D community to understand design requirements, specifications and test parameters
• Document test procedures for internal and external use

Analysis

• Use internal Data and Analytics tools to understand test parameters and test limits
• Provide feedback regarding circuit operation and target specifications
• Make automated test adjustments based on all analysis

Must Haves:

Software Skills

• Coding in C#, C, Python and Matlab
• Understanding of Linux and Linux tool development
• Scripting with various command-line interpreters (Linux and Windows based)

Hardware Skills

• Reading and understanding schematics
• Understanding and implementing data protocols such as I2C, I3C, SPI, MDIO, 1-wire, SGMII and PCIE
• Detailed understanding of analog and digital circuits
• Probing and debugging PCBs in the lab
• Understanding of lab equipment (DMMs, SMUs, Oscilloscopes, Spectrum Analyzers, Network Analyzers)
• In-circuit device programming using C2 interface, PMBUS, UART, etc.

General skills

• Strong communication skills
• Engage in detailed problem solving
• Strength in explaining test solutions and instructions
• Lab and office work

Pay Range:

The hourly pay range for this position is $25.00 - $32.00 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.