Hardware Design Engineer Intern (Fall 2026)

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.

The Opportunity:

4 month work term: September - December 2026

How You Will Contribute:

Ciena may well be the most important technology company you’ve never heard of. The innovations that wow us (driverless cars), and those we now take for granted (the ability to mobile stream your favorite show) are the products of ingenuity from some brilliant and forward-thinking companies. But those companies rely on Ciena, another vanguard of innovation, to create and advance the underlying networks that bring their breakthroughs to our doorsteps. VR, AI, IOT, 5G … literally none of it would be possible without the mind-boggling technology that makes the internet itself work. For more than 25 years, Ciena has been the global leader in networking strategy, and our technology has been part of the critical infrastructure running within the most advanced companies in the world.

The Packet-Optical HW Development team is looking for an enthusiastic and innovative designer to join the hardware development group in our Atlanta design center working on Ciena’s Packet Optical platform products.  The position will be tailored to the successful applicant and will involve working with senior designers implementing leading edge circuit packs for multi gigabit fiber optic transport systems.

In this role, you will…

• Circuit design and schematic capture
• Perform timing analysis and simulation of critical interfaces
• Perform hardware bring-up of initial prototypes
• Develop and execute hardware verification plans and, debug prototype hardware using a variety of test equipment such as oscilloscopes, network analyzers, protocol analyzers, signal generators, etc.
• Assist with large scale high-speed signal testing by developing and using automated data acquisition techniques

The Must Haves:

• Currently enrolled in BS or MS degree in Electronics/Electrical Engineering or related program
• Good communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills are essential

• The candidate must have initiative, enthusiasm and a desire to learn
• Strong knowledge of digital and analog circuits
• Familiarity with embedded microcontrollers
• Familiarity with programable logic devices such as CPLD’s and FPGA’s
• Familiarity with lab test equipment and measurement techniques

Assets:

• Experience with PCB schematic capture and layout tools is an asset
• Experience designing and debugging hardware is an asset

The hourly pay range for this position is $27.00-36.00

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.

In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers students access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation pay as required by applicable laws.

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.