Quality Assurance Routing & Switching Intern (Winter 2027)

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job. Connect with a career that matters.

The Opportunity: Work term of 4 or 8 months starting in January 2027. Join the Ottawa Quality Assurance team and contribute to software validation for IP switching platforms. This opportunity provides hands-on exposure to manual and automated testing while building knowledge of networking and virtualization technologies. The role contributes to software quality through test execution, automation development, and lab-based learning.

How you will make an impact

Collaborate with engineers to establish new lab topologies and expand understanding of integrated end-to-end IP systems. Enhance existing automation scripts written in Python. Develop new automation scripts in Python. Execute test suites for software validation. Identify software defects and document bugs. Retest software following defect resolution. Build knowledge of the software development lifecycle and quality assurance processes.

The must haves

Education: Actively enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in SW or Electrical Engineering or equivalent, Foundational knowledge of electrical circuits and/or sw development concepts. Demonstrated proficiency with Python. Demonstrated willingness to learn.

Nice to haves

Experience in/with Telecom and/or IP networks. AI & ML. MS Office products such as Excel and PowerPoint. Excellent communication skills. Pay Range The hourly pay range for this position is $25.50 to $35.00 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 r