Optical Systems Engineer

Ciena Xpo System Architecture And SimulationAs 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.Join Ciena's xPO System Architecture and Simulation team driving next-generation optical interconnect innovation for AI-scale systems. This role shapes the architecture of emerging Near-Packaged Optics (NPO) and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) solutions, ensuring industry-leading performance across integrated photonics, packaging, and system-level design.How You Will Make An Impact:Define architectures for current and future xPO interconnect productsEvaluate high-level system requirements and translate them into subcomponent specifications for engineering teamsLead system-level modeling and simulation efforts to enable end-to-end performance validationCorrelate simulated and measured performance data to refine internal modelsAdvance internally developed Python-based link simulation toolsCollaborate across photonic integrated circuits (PICs), electrical integrated circuit (EICs), packaging, and other engineering groups to optimize system designPresent system insights and results to internal and external stakeholdersThe Must Haves:Master's degree (+) in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering with industry experience in simulation, measurement, or system architectureKnowledge of high-speed photonics and optical system design with emphasis on integrated photonicsUnderstanding of signal integrity principles and intensity modulation/direct detection (IMDD) transceiver designProficiency in Python programmingAbility to synthesize complex technical findings into clear communicationNice To Haves:PhD in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical EngineeringFamiliarity with IEEE and Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF) standardsExperience with signal integrity and power integrity analysisKnowledge of digital signal processing and numerical analysisBackground in silicon photonicsExperience with high-speed test and measurement tools such as vector network analyzers (VNAs), bit-error-rate testers (BERTs), and oscilloscopesPay Range:The annual pay range for this position is $117,800 - $188,200Pay 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.