Performance Automation Intern January 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.

Internship Opportunity at Ciena: Performance Automation Intern (4-8 Months)

Location: Ottawa (in-person only)

Initial term: January – April 2026

Possibility of extension to 8 months, based on performance and project needs.

How You Will Contribute

Ciena's Agile and Programmable Optical Transport (APOT) organization is seeking an energetic and driven Software Designer or Data Scientist Intern to join the Performance and Automation Team. This team is pivotal in ensuring the quality and performance of Ciena's software and hardware while driving innovation through automation tools and data pipelines.

As an intern, you will collaborate with engineers and architects, gaining hands-on experience in software instrumentation, test automation, and data pipeline development. Your contributions will span multiple technical domains, including:

• Software Instrumentation: Enhancing existing software to collect performance metrics.
• Performance Metrics Capture: Measuring and analyzing network data to assess key performance indicators.
• Automation Development: Creating scripts to automate data collection and analysis workflows.
• Data Visualization: Building dashboards and visual tools to present actionable insights.
• ETL Pipelines: Designing pipelines to process raw data into meaningful insights.
• Automated Test Execution: Running test scripts, debugging issues, and reporting findings.
• Tool Development: Supporting product verification and integration teams with tools to streamline testing and analysis.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in scripting and programming languages such as Python, C, C++, JavaScript, and Bash Shell scripting.
• Familiarity with data science techniques and statistical methods.
• Knowledge of software development and testing processes, including version control systems like Git.
• Experience with Linux-based operating systems and workstations.
• Understanding of software performance concepts (preferred).
• Strong communication skills, self-motivation, and the ability to work in a team environment.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to multitask effectively.

Required Experience

• Currently enrolled in 2nd–4th year of a Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or related undergraduate program.
• Post-graduate students in relevant fields will also be considered.
• Previous programming experience through coursework, personal projects, or extracurricular activities (e.g., hobbies, clubs).

Why Ciena?
At Ciena, you'll work on cutting-edge technology, collaborate with industry experts, and make a meaningful impact on global networks. This internship provides hands-on experience, mentorship, and the opportunity to develop your technical and professional skills in a dynamic and innovative environment.

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.

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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.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.