Photonics Technical Manager

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.

As part of Ciena’s Modem and Photonics Lifecycle Management (LCM) and FA/Repair (REP) organization, this technical manager role drives the development and optimization of test systems that power our next‑generation optical and modem products. The position influences global manufacturing test strategy, strengthens product quality, and ensures seamless collaboration across engineering, manufacturing partners, and cross‑functional teams.

How you will make an impact:

• You will be part of a team that is laser focused on automation, efficiency, and business cases, and close loops daily/weekly.

• Your will report to LCM director for weekly/daily guidance and vision, particularly around automation architecture and new test methodogies and business case development for anything and everything we do.

• You will lead and manage the RLS LCM team at the Ottawa location and oversee performance across multiple global RLS LCM sites

• Develop, enhance, and maintain test automation software, test sequences, and test instructions

• Drive Design for Testability reviews and provide technical guidance throughout the R&D lifecycle

• Support prototype builds and validation testing for alpha and beta platforms in partnership with NPI, LCM, and Repair teams

• Collaborate with Contract Manufacturers to ensure robust prototype and production‑level testing

• Optimize test methods, improve efficiency, and scale capabilities to meet high‑volume production needs

• Integrate test stations into Ciena’s corporate manufacturing ecosystem, including process flows, databases, and automation interfaces

The must haves:

• Team player (everybody has a crucial role to play in the team, and we operate with expert player mindset).

• Must be open to learning new ways of automation in open architecture Sequencer Tree, Branch, leaf methdology.

• Must be open to learning new code development methods and cloud automation paired with Ai.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Security, Computer, or Electronics)

• 10+ years of experience in SYS, RLS LCM, Failure Analysis, or Test Engineering within electronics or contract manufacturing environments

• Strong technical expertise in telecom product testing and debugging.

• Hands‑on software development experience in C#, Python, TestStand, and Lua

• Proven experience working with Contract Manufacturers (e.g., Sanmina, Celestica, Flex, USI, Jabil)

• Proficiency in English with excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to navigate PCB schematics and laboratory test equipment with confidence

Nice to haves:

• Experience with electro‑optics secure product development and testing

• Familiarity with Ciena optical modem technologies

• Working knowledge of security standards, test protocols, and automated test systems

• Curiosity to explore and adopt new technologies to solve emerging challenges

The pay range for this position, in Canada, is $125,700.00 - $200, 700.00

#LI-JD

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.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
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.