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Ciena Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Step into the cutting-edge world of silicon photonics with Ciena. As a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer, you will be part of a team pushing the boundaries of optical technologies, developing ...

... Ciena's WaveLogic Optical Modem. Additionally, the candidate will support field activities and ... Enrolled in a Bachelors or Masters in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Optical ...

Senior Firmware Engineer

New Providence, NJ ยท On-site

$101K - $162K/yr

Ciena is a global leader in optical and routing systems, services, and automation software, driving ... Review code developed by other engineers and provide feedback to ensure best practices.

Senior DSP Software Engineer

New Providence, NJ ยท On-site

$117K - $188K/yr

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our ... our electro/optical simulation infrastructure. As a developer, you will play a key role in ...

Product Line Manager

Hanover, MD ยท Remote

$114K - $182K/yr

As a member of Ciena's Interconnects Product Line Management team, this role shapes the strategy ... Define product strategy and multi-year roadmaps for optical and electrical interconnect ...

... Ciena engineering team and lead the electrical package design for custom in-house photonic, analog, and digital ICs supporting next generation optical modules. * Own and drive advanced package ...

... Ciena engineering team and lead the electrical package design for custom in-house photonic, analog, and digital ICs supporting next generation optical modules. * Own and drive advanced package ...

Senior Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site +1

$117K - $155K/yr

Senior Software Engineer, WaveLogic Modem Software Development plays a critical role in delivering next-generation optical transport and switching capabilities at Ciena. This role contributes to ...

SVT/PV Engineer Routing/IP 2

Baltimore, MD ยท On-site

$104K - $167K/yr

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our ... Fiber optics and data center networking products; OLT and ONU devices, including performing end-to ...

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Ciena Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do ciena optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for ciena optical engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ciena Optical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ciena Optical Engineer, you need a strong background in optical networking, fiber optics, and telecommunications, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with Ciena hardware and management software, optical network design tools, and relevant certifications such as Ciena Certified Professional are highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across departments and respond to network challenges. These skills ensure reliable network performance, efficient troubleshooting, and successful implementation of complex optical solutions.

What is the difference between Ciena Optical Engineer vs Ciena Network Engineer?

AspectCiena Optical EngineerCiena Network Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Cisco CCNA or Ciena-specific trainingBachelor's in Networking, certifications like Cisco CCNP or similar
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and maintaining optical fiber systemsManaging and troubleshooting network infrastructure
Industry UsageTelecom, data centers, optical network providersTelecom, enterprise networks, service providers

The Ciena Optical Engineer focuses on designing and maintaining optical fiber systems, while the Ciena Network Engineer manages overall network infrastructure. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and specialization.

What is a Ciena Optical Engineer?

A Ciena Optical Engineer is a professional who specializes in designing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting optical networking solutions using Ciena's equipment and technologies. These engineers work with advanced fiber optic systems to ensure high-speed data transmission across telecommunications networks. Their responsibilities often include network planning, installation, testing, and resolving issues related to Ciena optical products. They typically collaborate with network architects and field technicians to deliver robust and scalable network solutions for service providers and large enterprises.

What types of projects do Ciena Optical Engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with cross-functional teams?

Ciena Optical Engineers are often involved in designing, testing, and optimizing advanced optical networks to support high-capacity data transmission for service providers and enterprise clients. They frequently collaborate with software engineers, network architects, and field technicians to ensure seamless integration of hardware and software solutions. Regular responsibilities include configuring optical equipment, troubleshooting network issues, and supporting network upgrades. Close teamwork is essential, as projects may require coordinating lab tests, field trials, and customer demonstrations to meet client requirements and deadlines.
Infographic showing various Ciena Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Ciena

New Providence, NJ โ€ข On-site

$133K - $212K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


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.

Step into the cutting-edge world of silicon photonics with Ciena. As a Silicon Photonics Design Engineer, you will be part of a team pushing the boundaries of optical technologies, developing innovative solutions for next-generation high-speed optical networks. You will leverage your expertise to design, simulate, and validate photonic devices, focusing on performance, reliability, and manufacturability for modulator devices.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Design & Optimization: Design and optimize photonic integrated circuits (PICs), specifically high-speed modulators.
  • Simulation: Conduct advanced simulations of modulator devices using specialized software tools to predict performance and reliability.
  • Data Analysis: Analyze and interpret experimental results, correlating hardware data with theoretical models.
  • Collaboration: Partner with wafer fabrication vendors to ensure design feasibility and cross-functional teams to integrate designs into broader systems.
  • Testing: Develop and implement DC and RF test plans for both active and passive photonic devices.
  • Documentation: Document design decisions and communicate technical advancements to stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

  • Education: Ph.D. in Photonics, Optics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering; OR an M.Sc. in a related field with 5+ years of direct industry experience in silicon photonics.
  • Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in photonic device design and hardware validation.
  • Technical Knowledge: Demonstrated experience in photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design, covering both active and passive components.
  • Tool Proficiency: Professional experience using simulation tools for optical, optoelectronic, or RF applications (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL, or Ansys).
  • Testing Skills: Practical experience with DC and RF test methods for photonic component characterization.
  • Fabrication: Hands-on experience with semiconductor fabrication processes.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Specialized Design: Experience specifically focused on the design and optimization of high-speed silicon modulators.
  • Advanced Materials: Knowledge of III-V material systems, TFLN, or BTO and their specific applications in photonics.
  • Yield Optimization: Experience with statistical analysis and data interpretation for manufacturing yield improvement.
  • Automation: Strong programming skills in Python for simulation automation and large-scale data analysis.
  • Partnership: Ability to collaborate with academic and industry R&D partners on emerging photonic technologies.

Pay Range:The salary range for this position if hired in New Jersey is $133,100 - $212,500 USD.

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 anEqual 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.