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New Grad Program Jobs in Ottawa, ON (NOW HIRING)

Willingness to learn and apply new technologies Nice to haves: * Understanding of real-time ... Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and ...

Photonic Layout Engineer - New Grad

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$74K - CA$118K/yr

... 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 ...

The Sales Leadership Program is more than an entry-level role. It is designed as a career ... Across functions, teams, and markets, we collaborate to solve challenges, unlock new opportunities ...

Why choose the Sales Leadership Program? * Positive impact - We dare for positive change, creating ... Across functions, teams, and markets, we collaborate to solve challenges, unlock new opportunities ...

New Grad Program information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a new grad program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a New Grad Program, you generally need a relevant academic degree, foundational knowledge in your field, and a strong willingness to learn. Familiarity with standard industry tools, productivity software, or basic certification (such as Excel, project management, or coding languages) is often expected. Initiative, adaptability, and communication skills set candidates apart by helping them integrate quickly and build professional relationships. These qualities are crucial for navigating the transition from academia to the workplace and for making a meaningful early impact.

What can new graduates expect from the structure and support provided in a typical new grad program?

New Grad Programs are designed to ease the transition from academia to the professional world by offering structured onboarding, mentorship, and rotational assignments. You can expect to work closely with experienced professionals, participate in training sessions, and receive regular feedback to help accelerate your learning curve. These programs typically foster collaborative environments where new grads can network with peers and leaders, laying a strong foundation for long-term career growth within the company.

What is a new grad program?

A New Grad Program is a structured initiative offered by companies to recent college or university graduates. These programs are designed to help new graduates transition from academia to the professional world by providing training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in various departments. Participants often rotate through different roles to gain broad exposure and build essential skills. The goal is to prepare new grads for long-term success within the organization and help them identify potential career paths. New Grad Programs typically last from several months to two years, depending on the employer.

What is the difference between New Grad Program vs Software Engineer?

AspectNew Grad ProgramSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsRecent graduation, internship experienceBachelor's or higher in CS or related field, some roles may require experience
Work EnvironmentTraining-focused, mentorship programs, entry-level tasksProject development, coding, system design, more independent responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech companies for onboarding new graduatesStandard role for experienced professionals in tech industry

The New Grad Program is designed for recent graduates entering the tech industry, offering training and mentorship. In contrast, a Software Engineer role typically requires more experience and involves independent project work. The program serves as a stepping stone into full-time software engineering positions.

What job categories do people searching New Grad Program jobs in Ottawa, ON look for? The top searched job categories for New Grad Program jobs in Ottawa, ON are:
What cities near Ottawa, ON are hiring for New Grad Program jobs? Cities near Ottawa, ON with the most New Grad Program job openings:
Infographic showing various New Grad Program job openings in Ottawa, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Test Engineer, Test Station Validation - New Grad

Ciena

Ottawa, ON

CA$62K - CA$100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 hours 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.

Ciena Canada ULC is seeking a motivated Test Engineer, Test Station Validation New Grad to contribute to the development and validation of test systems supporting optical networking hardware. This role provides an opportunity for early career engineers to build technical expertise through applied testing, automation, and collaboration across engineering disciplines. The position contributes to improving validation efficiency and product reliability.
How you will make an impact:
  • Design and implement test plans and procedures for validating test stations and systems
  • Develop and debug automated test sequences using MATLAB, NI TestStand, or Python
  • Contribute to automated testing framework development to improve efficiency and reliability
  • Perform hands-on testing and debugging of electrical circuits, Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), and test hardware
  • Collaborate with hardware design and engineering teams to identify and resolve test station issues
  • Execute hardware verification activities including functional and performance testing
  • Document test results, observations, and issues for review and process improvement
The must haves:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience: 1+ years of experience in test engineering, hardware validation, or a related discipline
  • Application of MATLAB, NI TestStand, or Python for test automation through coursework or practical exposure
  • Application of electrical circuit analysis, PCB design concepts, and hardware testing principles
  • Problem-solving aptitude demonstrated through technical or academic work
  • Collaboration and communication demonstrated through team-based environments
  • Ability to document technical findings and communicate results clearly
Nice to haves:
  • Exposure to automation frameworks or testing tools
Pay Range:
The annual salary range for this position is $62,600 - $100,000.

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.