Platform Software Developer

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and debug high-performance software for real-time embedded systems used in optical networking platforms
• Collaborate with hardware, quality assurance, and system engineering teams to define software requirements and interfaces
• Develop and maintain software components spanning operating systems, drivers, control plane, and data plane functionality
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex software issues in multi-threaded and distributed environments
• Apply industry trends and emerging technologies to embedded systems and networking challenges

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, graduating in 2026
• Proficiency in C and C++ programming through academic or project-based experience
• Background in embedded systems development, including real-time operating systems and multi-threaded execution models
• Strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented design principles
• Experience with Linux-based development environments and scripting in Python or Bash
• Familiarity with software development tools such as debuggers, version control, and automated build tools

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to networking protocols and concepts such as TCP/IP and Ethernet
• Background working with control plane or data plane software components
• Familiarity with distributed system behaviors in embedded or networking contexts

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• 401(K) participation with company matching
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time

About the Company

Ciena is a global leader in high-speed connectivity, committed to a people-first approach. We are a technology company that leads with humanity, driving business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.