Complete Waste Of Life - Senior Software Engineer Ciena Employee Review

1.0
Jan 4, 2013
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Interesting technology, and nice people to work with. A very fast-paced environment, and lots of potential for moving around to different focus areas. Wellness Reimbursement fund given to all employees.

Cons

No real bonus or raises in the 4 years I worked there. A lot of politics required for any vertical movement (promotions) Very little communication between senior management and employees. Varied work schedules with no consistency and forced shift schedules. Always in "crunch mode". Poor release scheduling and management. Yes-man to customers, which constantly forces employees to adjust schedules and add features originally not planned in the release. Technology can be varied some is current, and some is rather ancient.

Explore other reviews about Ciena

5.0
Jul 17, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great people who work well together across company silos. Good pay, especially with stock performing well.

Cons

Extremely low attrition (~2% annually) leaves a workforce that is very experienced at Ciena. Unfortunately, this means high resistance to change and low awareness of industry best practices. Low attrition also leads to minimal opportunities for job growth.

3.0
Jun 18, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good work life balance, good environment

Cons

Pay is not competitive, very less stock options.

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