Python Software Engineer

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.

How You Will Contribute

You will report to the Engineering Manager and will be responsible for designing, building, and maintaining scalable backend systems. You will work closely with frontend engineers, QA, and product teams to deliver reliable, high‑quality software.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain Python-based backend services and APIs.
• Build and optimize RESTful services for high performance and scalability.
• Work with PostgreSQL/SQL databases, including schema design, queries, and performance tuning.
• Collaborate with frontend teams using Angular to ensure seamless API integration.
• Participate in code reviews, debugging, and production support.
• Contribute to system design, architecture discussions, and technical documentation.
  
  

What Do We Expect of You?

• Curiosity – Strong interest in understanding systems deeply and continuously learning new backend technologies.
• Initiative – Ability to work independently, take ownership, and deliver high-quality solutions with minimal supervision.
• Agility – Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment with competing priorities.
• Communication Expertise – Capable of explaining technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Big-Picture Thinking – Understand system-wide impact while paying attention to implementation details.
• Collaboration – Thrive in cross-functional teams while also being effective working independently.
• Relationship Builder – Ability to build trust and work effectively with internal teams and stakeholders.
• Commitment to Innovation – Stay current with backend engineering trends, tools, and best practices.
  
  

The Must-Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• 0-1 years of experience in backend development with a strong focus on Python.
• Hands-on experience with Python frameworks such as Django, Flask, or FastAPI.
• Strong knowledge of PostgreSQL and SQL, including writing optimized queries.
• Experience designing and consuming REST APIs.
• Basic working knowledge of Java (for maintaining or integrating with existing services).
• Understanding of frontend-backend integration; familiarity with Angular is required.
• Experience with version control systems (Git) and CI/CD pipelines.
  
  

Assets (Nice to Have)

• Experience with microservices architecture.
• Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP).
• Experience with asynchronous processing, message queues, or event-driven systems.
• Familiarity with automated testing and performance monitoring tools.
  
  

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.