Routing/IP Software Developer Intern

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.

Term: 4 or 8 Months (January 2026 – August 2026)
Location: In-Office

How You Will Contribute

As an Intern/Co-op on the Packet Control Plane team, you’ll gain hands-on experience working on advanced Routing and MPLS technologies that power carrier-grade networks. During your term, you will:

• Contribute to feature development in Routing, BGP, IS-IS, MPLS, and Segment Routing (SR-MPLS, SRv6).

• Assist in the design, coding, validation, and documentation of networking software components.

• Support implementation and testing of Segment Routing features, including SR-MPLS and SRv6, with focus on scale, resiliency, and traffic engineering.

• Troubleshoot and debug routing protocol and service issues under the guidance of senior engineers.

• Learn and apply skills in MPLS, IS-IS, Segment Routing features (SR-MPLS, SRv6), TiLFA, EVPN, Ethernet services, IPv4/IPv6 protocols, and transport protocols.

Work Environment

You will be part of a collaborative and innovative in-office team working on next-generation IP/MPLS routing capabilities. Expect:

• Mentorship from experienced engineers.

• Exposure to carrier-class product development cycles.

• An opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world networking challenges.

Why This Role Matters

The Ciena Packet Control Plane team is building advanced Routing and MPLS capabilities that help Service Providers modernize and unify their networks. As an intern, you will:

• Work on projects that have direct impact on real deployments.

• Gain hands-on experience with technologies shaping the future of IP/MPLS routing.

• Develop skills that position you for a career in advanced networking and systems software.

The Must-Haves

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related discipline.

• Strong programming skills in C and Python — this is an absolute must.

• Interest in computer networking and eagerness to learn about Routing, MPLS, and Segment Routing.

• Solid problem-solving and debugging skills.

Nice to Have

• Exposure to IP routing protocols (ISIS, BGP), MPLS, and Segment Routing features (SR-MPLS, SRv6).

• Knowledge of Ethernet services, IPv4/IPv6, EVPN, TiLFA, or other transport protocols.

• Familiarity with Linux development environments.

Pay Range: The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $34.00

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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.