Ciena is a global leader in high speed connectivity solutions and advanced networking technologies. The company plays a critical role in building modern digital infrastructure that supports cloud computing, telecom networks, data centers, and enterprise connectivity worldwide. With a strong people first culture, Ciena focuses not only on technology innovation but also on employee well being, flexibility, inclusion, and personal growth.
Ciena offers a collaborative and respectful work environment where employees are encouraged to innovate, learn continuously, and make meaningful contributions to society and the global tech ecosystem.
The Software Engineer C and Networking role at Ciena is designed for professionals who are passionate about system level programming, networking technologies, and scalable software design. This role provides an opportunity to work on advanced networking products that power global communication systems.
About Ciena
Ciena is a technology company specializing in high speed optical networking, network automation, and intelligent network software solutions. The company supports telecom operators, cloud providers, governments, and enterprises across the world.
Ciena believes in leading with humanity by combining strong business priorities with social impact, community engagement, and diversity inclusion initiatives. Employees are empowered to grow individually while contributing to projects that impact millions of users globally.
Role Overview Software Engineer C and Networking
As a Software Engineer specializing in C and Networking at Ciena, you will be responsible for building high performance networking software that is reliable, scalable, and efficient.
You will work closely with cross functional teams including system architects, networking engineers, QA teams, and product managers to deliver next generation networking solutions.
This role requires deep technical knowledge of C programming, data structures and algorithms, networking protocols, and modern network management interfaces.
Key Responsibilities of Software Engineer C and Networking
- Design, develop, and maintain robust software components using the C programming language.
- Implement and manage YANG data models to support network configuration, monitoring, and automation.
- Integrate with Northbound Interfaces such as CLI, REST, gRPC, and NETCONF for network management and orchestration.
- Apply advanced data structures and algorithms to build efficient and scalable software modules.
- Collaborate with cross functional engineering and product teams to deliver innovative networking solutions.
- Troubleshoot complex system level issues and optimize performance for high availability and reliability.
- Enhance existing codebases for scalability, maintainability, and performance improvements.
- Stay updated with emerging technologies in networking, cloud infrastructure, and software development.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Strong proficiency in C programming for system-level and network development.
- Solid experience with data structures and algorithms, including trees, graphs, hashing, and memory management.
- Hands-on experience with YANG data modeling for network configuration and management.
- Working knowledge of northbound interfaces such as CLI, REST APIs, gRPC, and NETCONF.
- Strong understanding of networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, routing, switching, and network protocols.
- Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical thinking skills.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills for working with global teams.
Desired Skills
- Experience in the telecommunications or network management systems domain is a plus.
- Familiarity with Linux or Unix environments for system-level development.
- Experience with software-defined networking and network function virtualization concepts.
- Understanding of network automation frameworks and orchestration tools.
- Experience working with distributed systems or high-availability architectures. Professional Growth and Learning Opportunities
- Siana offers excellent opportunities for professional development. Siana engineers can advance to senior technical roles, solution architects, technical leads, or engineering managers, depending on their interests and performance.
- Siana promotes continuous learning through internal training programs, mentorship, technical workshops, and access to learning platforms. We encourage employees to innovate, propose new ideas, and participate in the development of cutting-edge network solutions.
- Working at Siana also provides exposure to large-scale production systems used by major telecommunications operators and enterprises worldwide, making this position extremely valuable for long-term career development.
Work Culture and Benefits
Siana fosters a people-first culture, focused on flexibility, inclusion, and respect. The company offers a flexible work environment, mental health initiatives, diversity and inclusion programs, and equal opportunities for growth for all employees. Siena is an equal opportunity employer and does not tolerate any form of discrimination. The company respects all individuals and fosters a workplace where everyone feels valued, heard, and supported.
Employees also benefit from competitive compensation, health benefits, learning opportunities, and work-life balance policies.
Salary Expectations
The salary for a C and Networking Software Engineer at Ciena varies depending on experience, location, and skill level. In India, the typical salary range can start with a competitive package for entry-level positions and increase significantly for experienced professionals with strong networking and systems programming skills.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should visit Ciena’s official careers page and search for “C and Networking Software Engineer.” Applicants should prepare a resume highlighting C programming projects, networking knowledge, experience with YANG or network automation, and relevant academic or professional achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a C and Networking Software Engineer at Ciena do?
They design, develop, and optimize networking software using C, data structures, YANG models, and network management interfaces to deliver high-performance connectivity solutions.
Is this position suitable for recent graduates?
Recent graduates with a strong understanding of C, data structures, and networking concepts, along with relevant projects, are encouraged to apply, although some positions may require experience.
What programming language is primarily required?
C is the primary programming language for this position.
Is networking knowledge mandatory for this position?
Yes, a strong understanding of networking concepts and protocols is essential.
What is YANG and why is it important?
YANG is a data modeling language used to define network configurations and state data, enabling network automation and management.
Does Ciena offer flexible work options?
Yes, Ciena promotes flexible work environments and employee well-being.
Which industries does Ciena primarily serve?
Ciena primarily serves telecommunications operators, cloud service providers, governments, and large enterprises.
Is Ciena an equal opportunity employer?
Yes, Ciena is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all employees.