NPI Program Manager

Job Description

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’s Interconnects Operations team is looking for a Technical NPI Project Manager to help launch Ciena’s world leading optical products into volume production.

The role of the Interconnects NPI PM is to plan and manage the introduction of new products from the design phase through to ramp at our partner manufacturing sites. This involves understanding the key milestones, dependencies and risks. The NPI PM will work closely with the extended team (Supply Chain, NPI, Test and Process Teams), R&D, Ciena Prototype Lab and CMs.

How You Will Contribute

• Plan and manage the introduction of new optical products from design phase through to volume production ramp at partner manufacturing sites.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Supply Chain, NPI, Test and Process Teams), R&D, Ciena Prototype Lab, and contract manufacturers to ensure successful project execution.


• Define project deliverables and schedules with clear milestones in partnership with cross-functional teams.


• Track Operations key deliverables, ensuring accurate and detailed updates for program success.


• Monitor project plans, communicate changes and risks to key team members, and implement contingency plans as needed.


• Oversee prototype builds in Ciena’s Lab and at contract manufacturers, ensuring seamless execution.


• Partner with production operations teams to ensure a smooth and efficient production ramp.

The Must Haves

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electronics, Electrical, or Optical Engineering.


• Minimum of 3-5 years of Project Management experience.


• Knowledge of Optical/Electrical test engineering.


• Strong cross-functional leadership with proven organizational and problem-solving skills.


• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.


• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining focus and quality.

Nice to Haves

• Experience with Agile methodologies.


• Proven track record of engaging others collaboratively to achieve results.

Pay Range

The salary range for this role in Canada is $85,000 - $135,800.

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.

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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.