Senior Software Development Manager

Overview

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. Ciena is advancing network automation through AI‑powered applications that enhance network management and optimization.

This role contributes to delivering intelligent, scalable software solutions that improve performance and operational efficiency. The position also shapes engineering practices that support AI‑driven innovation and transformation.

Lead development teams in delivering AI‑enabled applications for network management and optimization;
Mentor and develop engineering talent to build a collaborative and high‑performing team environment;
Drive planning and execution of features to meet delivery timelines and quality expectations;
Champion adoption and scaling of AI technologies to improve development efficiency and product innovation;
Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including product management, data science, UX, and platform engineering;
Implement engineering best practices including modular design, performance optimization, and automated testing.

• Lead and mentor engineering teams to deliver AI‑enabled applications.
• Manage planning, execution, and delivery of product features.
• Advocate for and scale AI technologies across the engineering organization.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional stakeholders to define requirements and design solutions.
• Implement best practices such as modular design, performance optimization, and automated testing.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent.
• 8+ years of software development experience applying modern engineering practices.
• 2+ years of experience managing direct reports in an engineering environment.
• Experience delivering complex software solutions within Agile development frameworks.
• Leadership and mentoring of engineering teams supporting delivery outcomes.
• Strong communication and collaboration across distributed teams and cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Ability to operate effectively in evolving and fast‑paced environments.

• Experience applying AI/ML technologies in production systems.
• Experience leading AI transformation initiatives within engineering teams.
• Experience with network management systems, software‑defined networking (SDN), or network automation platforms.
• Experience utilizing cloud‑native platforms, microservices architectures, and Kubernetes.
• Background in data‑driven decision making and analytics.

The annual pay range for this position is C $140,900 – C $225,100.

• 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.
• Compliance with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.

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.