Job Description

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.
Ciena is a global leader in optical and routing systems, services, and automation software, driving innovation to enable the adaptive network of the future. We are looking for a highly skilled Embedded Software Engineer specializing in Linux device drivers to join our dynamic platform software team. This role involves designing, developing, and maintaining low-level software for Ciena's next-generation networking platforms. A deep understanding of the Linux kernel, hardware/software interaction, and system-level debugging is essential.
How You Will Contribute

• Design, develop, debug, and maintain robust Linux kernel device drivers using C.
• Collaborate with hardware teams to understand device specifications, support hardware bring-up, and develop software for new ASICs and FPGAs.
• Triage and resolve complex low-level software defects during system integration, validation, and customer deployments.
• Utilize advanced debugging tools (e.g., gdb, kgdb, ftrace, perf, JTAG/ICE) to address hardware/software interaction challenges.
• Optimize driver performance for latency, throughput, and resource utilization.
• Upgrade and refine existing codebases while conducting rigorous peer reviews to ensure quality and maintainability.
• Partner with cross-functional teams, including hardware design, QA, and system architects, to define software requirements and specifications.

The Must Haves

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in embedded system development, with a strong focus on Linux device drivers.
• Expertise in C/C++ programming for embedded systems.
• Deep understanding of Linux kernel internals, including memory management, scheduling, interrupt handling, and device models.
• Proven experience with real-time software implementation and RTOS concepts (e.g., Linux with PREEMPT_RT, VxWorks).
• Demonstrated ability to debug complex hardware/software interaction issues, including reading schematics and device datasheets.
• Comprehensive knowledge of OS coding techniques, IP protocols, interfaces (I2C, SPI, MDIO, PCIe), and hardware subsystems.

Nice to Haves

• Experience developing Ethernet switch, PHY, or MAC device drivers.
• Familiarity with high-speed SerDes interfaces.
• Knowledge of platform boot software, such as U-Boot.
• Experience with scripting languages like Python or Bash for test automation.
• Familiarity with YANG modeling language and associated toolchains (e.g., ConfD).
• Contributions to the upstream Linux kernel community.

Pay Range
The pay range for this role is competitive and commensurate with experience.
Canada: $79,800.00 - 127,600.00
#LI-JD
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.
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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.

Skills Required