Software Engineer (Security) - New Grad

Ciena

Alpharetta, GA, United States · Atlanta, GA, United StatesFull-time$69,900–$111,700Posted Oct 26, 2026

About the role

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job. Connect with a career that matters.

At Ciena, we are shaping the hyper-connected world of tomorrow. As a global leader in networking systems, services, and software, Ciena empowers digital experiences that connect us all. This new grad opportunity offers the chance to innovate, learn, and contribute to technology that powers the globe while launching a career.

How you will make an impact:

Design, develop, and test features in C and C++ for embedded systems.

Investigate, debug, and resolve complex software defects to enhance performance and reliability.

Identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities.

Engage in the complete software development lifecycle, from architecture to testing and delivery.

Develop scripts, test utilities, and automation tools to optimize development processes.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver seamless software releases.

The must haves:

Education: Bachelor’s degree (pursuing or recently completed) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.

Experience: 1+ years of programming experience in C/C++ and foundational knowledge of scripting languages like Python.

Strong understanding of computer science fundamentals, including data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented design.

Interest in software development and solving complex technical challenges.

Knowledge of modern version control systems, particularly Git.

An openness to learning and expanding knowledge and expertise, especially in the area of security.

Nice to haves:

Exposure to Linux kernel and embedded systems.

Understanding of CPU hardware architectures and low-level software/firmware development.

Familiarity with Agile development methodology.

Experience with automated unit testing frameworks.

Understanding of security concepts like SSL, TLS, SSH, authentication, and encryption algorithms.

Pay Range:

The annual pay range for this position is $69,900 - $111,700.

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.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and test embedded-system features in C and C++.
  • Investigate and resolve software defects to improve performance and reliability.
  • Identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities.
  • Contribute across the software development lifecycle, from architecture through testing and delivery.
  • Develop scripts, test utilities, and automation tools.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver software releases.

Qualifications

  • Pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field.
  • At least 1 year of programming experience in C or C++ and foundational knowledge of Python or another scripting language.
  • Knowledge of data structures, algorithms, object-oriented design, and Git.
  • Interest in software development, solving technical challenges, and learning about security.
  • Exposure to Linux kernel, embedded systems, CPU architectures, low-level software or firmware, Agile, or automated unit testing is beneficial.
  • Familiarity with SSL, TLS, SSH, authentication, or encryption algorithms is beneficial.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision plans.
  • 401(k) or DCPP with company matching.
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time.
  • Eligible non-sales employees may receive a discretionary incentive bonus.

Skills mentioned

CC++PythonEmbedded SystemsApplication SecurityDebuggingGitLinuxSoftware TestingAutomation

About Ciena

Ciena (NYSE:CIEN) is the global leader in high-speed connectivity. We build advanced networks to support exponential growth in bandwidth demand—empowering our customers, partners, and communities to thrive in the AI era. With unparalleled expertise and innovation, our networking systems, interconnects, automation software, and services revolutionize data transmission and network management.

Telecommunications5,001-10,000 employeesHanover, Maryland

H-1B sponsorship history

Historical employer filing data was found for Ciena. The employer record includes 201 historical certified applications. This is employer-level history, not a guarantee that this role currently offers sponsorship.