Embedded Software 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.

Ciena is a global leader in optical and routing systems, services, and automation software, driving innovation to enable the adaptive network of the future. We are looking for a highly skilled Embedded Software Engineer specializing in Linux device drivers to join our dynamic platform software team. This role involves designing, developing, and maintaining low-level software for Ciena's next-generation networking platforms. A deep understanding of the Linux kernel, hardware/software interaction, and system-level debugging is essential.

How You Will Contribute

• Design, develop, debug, and maintain robust Linux kernel device drivers using C.
• Collaborate with hardware teams to understand device specifications, support hardware bring-up, and develop software for new ASICs and FPGAs.
• Triage and resolve complex low-level software defects during system integration, validation, and customer deployments.
• Utilize advanced debugging tools (e.g., gdb, kgdb, ftrace, perf, JTAG/ICE) to address hardware/software interaction challenges.
• Optimize driver performance for latency, throughput, and resource utilization.
• Upgrade and refine existing codebases while conducting rigorous peer reviews to ensure quality and maintainability.
• Partner with cross-functional teams, including hardware design, QA, and system architects, to define software requirements and specifications.

The Must Haves

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in embedded system development, with a strong focus on Linux device drivers.
• Expertise in C/C++ programming for embedded systems.
• Deep understanding of Linux kernel internals, including memory management, scheduling, interrupt handling, and device models.
• Proven experience with real-time software implementation and RTOS concepts (e.g., Linux with PREEMPT_RT, VxWorks).
• Demonstrated ability to debug complex hardware/software interaction issues, including reading schematics and device datasheets.
• Comprehensive knowledge of OS coding techniques, IP protocols, interfaces (I2C, SPI, MDIO, PCIe), and hardware subsystems.

Nice to Haves

• Experience developing Ethernet switch, PHY, or MAC device drivers.
• Familiarity with high-speed SerDes interfaces.
• Knowledge of platform boot software, such as U-Boot.
• Experience with scripting languages like Python or Bash for test automation.
• Familiarity with YANG modeling language and associated toolchains (e.g., ConfD).
• Contributions to the upstream Linux kernel community.

Pay Range
The pay range for this role is competitive and commensurate with experience.
Canada: $79,800.00 - 127,600.00

#LI-JD

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