AI Application Developer

Ciena is committed to our people-first philosophy. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a personalized and flexible work environment that empowers an individual’s passions, growth, wellbeing and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

We are a dynamic software development team specializing in Ciena network management solutions. Our mission is to leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance network performance, reliability, and automation. We are seeking a talented AI Application Developer to join our team and contribute to our AI, AIOps, and Data Science initiatives.

As an AI Application Developer, you will play a key role in designing, developing, and delivering AI-driven applications within the Ciena Navigator Network Control Suite. This includes leveraging Generative AI, Classical AI/ML, Agentic AI techniques, and Large Language Models (LLMs) to transform operational workflows and optimize network management. Your work will involve researching emerging technologies, fine-tuning AI models tailored to Ciena’s needs, and driving innovation to deliver impactful solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and integrate AIOps solutions into the Navigator Network Control Suite, working closely with cross-functional teams.
• Analyze large datasets to extract meaningful insights and enable data-driven decision-making.
• Research, evaluate, and apply Generative AI and Agentic AI techniques to transform operational workflows.
• Fine-tune and train AI/ML models to maximize value for Ciena product use cases.
• Define and implement best practices for AI solution development, deployment, scalability, and reliability.
• Conduct code reviews, testing, and debugging to ensure high-quality software delivery.
• Stay current with advancements in AI, AIOps, Data Science, and related technologies to continuously improve solutions.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in AI, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in AI software development, including production-deployed AI systems.
• Expertise in Large Language Models (LLMs), agentic frameworks, RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) techniques, and transformers.
• Proficiency in machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) and data analysis tools.
• Proven track record of delivering complex microservice-based software systems.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure) and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Strong programming skills in Python, Java, or C++.
• Solid understanding of network management principles and protocols.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities, with a passion for continuous learning and innovation.
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with stakeholders and work independently or as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with network management solutions.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in AI, Computer Science, or a related field.

Why Join Us?

At Ciena, you’ll work on innovative projects that shape the future of network management and automation. You’ll collaborate with a team of experts and have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge AI technologies. Join us to make a meaningful impact and advance your career in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Pay range for this role, in Canadian, is $93,000.00 - $148,600.00

#LI-JD

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.

Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community to get relevant job alerts straight to your inbox.

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.