good people culture, low compensation - Software Engineer Ciena Employee Review

3.0
Aug 4, 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good people culture with supportive co-workers everyone works together, no competition among co-workers Interesting tech and many challenges to learn from

Cons

You could not find a lower salary anywhere else, no matter how hard you try

Explore other reviews about Ciena

5.0
Jul 22, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Competitive salary, benefits, and support. Interesting product.

Cons

Lack of advancement opportunities or career changes.

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.

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