Photonics Test and Measurement Engineer

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.

We are seeking a highly skilled Photonics Test and Measurement Engineer to join our PIC Test and Chip Engineering team. This team plays a critical role in developing and implementing advanced test solutions, performing electro-optical characterization, conducting reliability studies, and driving yield analysis for Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) devices that power Ciena’s current and next-generation high-speed photonic components.

This is a hands-on role for an engineer who thrives in a lab environment, working with state-of-the-art optical and electronic test equipment to execute innovative characterization techniques. The ideal candidate will combine strong experimental skills with deep photonics knowledge and data analysis expertise to deliver actionable insights that shape product performance and reliability.

How You Will Contribute:

• Design and execute experimental characterization of photonic integrated circuits, performing precise optical and electrical measurements.
• Develop test automation software and design electrical/optical layouts to enable efficient and accurate testing.
• Conduct hands-on measurements using advanced lab instrumentation and troubleshoot complex test setups.
• Analyze and interpret large datasets using modern programming languages (e.g., Python), uncovering meaningful trends and actionable insights.
• Communicate findings effectively to cross-functional teams, delivering clear conclusions and recommendations that drive product performance.
• Collaborate with software and hardware teams to develop new test features, resolve bugs, and optimize test algorithms for speed, stability, and robustness.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for internal teams, both locally in Ottawa and remotely across global locations.

The Must Haves:

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or Master’s) in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong foundational knowledge of photonic devices, including modulators, lasers, SOAs, detectors, and optical fibers.
• Proven experience in optical measurement and characterization techniques, such as fiber coupling loss, LIV curves, SOA gain, modulator extinction ratio, and RF testing.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data analysis and test automation.
• Hands-on experience with automating electrical and optical test equipment, including source meters and optical power meters.
• Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills; capable of working independently and within a team environment.

Nice to Haves:

• Familiarity with Microsoft Visual Studio, C#, and maintainable software practices for test automation.
• Experience with advanced RF testing techniques and methodologies.
• Knowledge of reliability studies and yield analysis for photonic devices.
• Exposure to high-speed optical networks and next-generation photonic technologies.
• Understanding of optical fiber technologies and their integration with PIC devices.
• Background in designing electrical layouts for high-speed testing environments.
• Experience in a global, cross-functional engineering environment.

Salary Range: The salary range for this role in Ottawa is $74, 200 - $118, 600

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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.

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