Embedded software engineer
At a glance
Mid-level Embedded & Firmware role at Ciena. Ottawa · full-time · CA$96,200–CA$148,600 base.
techroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Build embedded C and C++ software for Linux and real-time systems, then connect it with ASIC and FPGA hardware on SoC platforms
- Carry work from gathering requirements and shaping architecture through coding, testing and customer-ready delivery
- Coordinate with teams in different locations to develop systems that can scale and perform well
- Guide less experienced engineers, and help field teams resolve deployment and integration issues
- Use coherent optics and pluggable optical technology to improve hardware-software integration and system performance
What you bring
- A bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering, or a related discipline
- At least ten years in embedded software engineering, plus five or more years programming in C, C++ and embedded C
- Experience with debugging tools such as GDB or Valgrind, and with FPGA or ASIC integration, device bring-up and SoC platforms
- Working knowledge of coherent optics, Linux kernel and user-space drivers, and core embedded concepts such as interrupts and synchronization
Who this fits
This mid-level title comes with substantial experience expectations and technical guidance for junior engineers. The work suits someone with embedded hardware integration experience and familiarity with coherent optics; field deployment and troubleshooting support are also part of the role. The role is based in Ottawa, Canada.
From the employer
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:
Design, code, and integrate embedded C/C++ software on Linux and real-time operating systems.
Develop software that interfaces with ASIC/FPGA hardware on SoC platforms.
Own the full lifecycle: requirements gathering, architecture design, implementation, testing, and ensuring successful product delivery to customers.
Collaborate with local and global teams to deliver scalable, high-performance systems.
Provide technical leadership by guiding and mentoring more junior engineers in the team, fostering collaboration and skill development.
Support field teams during deployments and troubleshooting to ensure smooth integration and customer satisfaction.
Leverage your experience with coherent optics, pluggable optical technology, OTN mapper or/and re-timer devices (e.g., DIGI/G5/DX1/DX2) to improve hardware/software integration and system performance.
Work comfortably with AI tools such as Co-Pilot for tasks including, but not limited to, problem analysis, software development, test case generation and automation.
The Must Haves:
Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field.
10+ years of experience in embedded software engineering, preferably in telecom, networking, or datacom industries.
5+ years of programming experience in C, C++, and embedded C, with proficiency in debugging tools (e.g., GDB, Valgrind).
Working knowledge of coherent optical technology.
Hands-on experience with FPGA/ASIC integration, device bring-up, and SoC platforms.
Knowledge of CPU architectures, hardware specifications, and timing diagrams.
Experience with Linux kernel and user-space drivers.
Strong foundation in embedded systems concepts: interrupts, synchronization, and inter-process communication.
Familiarity with telecom and networking protocols: DWDM, OTN, Ethernet, TCP/IP.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical collaboration.
Nice to Have:
Experience working with OTN mapper or/and re-timer devices.
Comfortable working with AI tools such as Co-Pilot for software development and test case generation.
Prototyping skills to explore solutions and refine designs.
Experience designing large-scale distributed embedded systems using microservice architectures.
Knowledge of telecom standards such as G.709 and IEEE 802.3.
Familiarity with data modeling (e.g., YANG).
Experience with development tools: Git, JIRA, Confluence, or Yocto.
Pay Range: The salary range for this role is $96, 200 - $148, 600
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.
Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
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.
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