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.

Legal Department Intern

Ciena is a multi-national US-based NYSE-listed company providing telecommunications infrastructure, networking and network management solutions to the telecommunications and global content provider community.

Our 60+ person legal department has been recognized consistently – both internally and externally - for its commercially minded and customer first approach. An internship at Ciena will provide you with experience and insight into working as in-house counsel.  This paid internship will be full time (40 hours per week) throughout the Summer of 2026. . This internship is designed as a summer learning opportunity and is not an articling position. Ciena does not offer articling placements. We encourage candidates to view this program as a chance to gain practical experience and insight into the role of in-house counsel, rather than a step toward fulfilling bar admission requirements. Additionally, the position will follow a hybrid work model, requiring periodic attendance at Ciena’s Ottawa office.

To learn more about Ciena visit: www.ciena.com

Why Ciena’s Legal Intern Program?

• We provide exposure to a wide range of legal areas and are deeply embedded in all areas of the business. You will be afforded that visibility throughout the program.
• Mentoring. Networking. Leadership Opportunities. You will have the ability to work with senior attorneys immediately on issues that affect the business globally. We recognize that learning doesn’t stop when you leave formal education - we foster a team environment for development and provide the tools to achieve success.
• We are big proponents of life-work integration. Our people make a big difference at Ciena, but we want to shine light on their contributions outside of working hours, too. We support non-profit causes important to employees by matching employee financial contributions and dedicating time for volunteering.

How You Will Contribute:

As a Legal Department Intern, you will:

• Work on active legal matters and projects, including participation in customer and/or supplier negotiations, often times in partnership with the Ciena Legal team and/or external counsel.
• Deliver assigned work under appropriate supervision.
• Conduct legal research and draft corresponding memos.
• Collaborate with colleagues in other business units including Commercial Management, Sales, Procurement, and Human Resources.
• Participate in team meetings, sharing your experiences and perspectives with the team.
• Participate in organized social and community events for insight into our culture and values.
• Learn and gain insight into our specialist practice areas such as intellectual property, corporate, compliance, employment, and procurement.

What Does Ciena Expect of You?

• Flexibility to work independently and remotely, as well as part of a broader team
• Active participation, curiosity, and self motivation
• Strong writing skills and the ability to communicate clearly, effectively, and concisely
• A willingness to learn – both from the legal team and from the business functions that we support
• The ability to thrive in an ever-changing environment of multiple and competing priorities

Must Haves:

• Currently enrolled in a law School (LLB or LLL program). The ideal candidate will have just completed their first or second year of Law School.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Willing to travel/commute to office 2-3 days a week

Assets:

• Strong interest in corporate and/or transactional law.
• Previous experience and/or strong interest in cyber security, privacy, intellectual property (including AI), trade, corporate governance, compliance, government relations is a plus.
• Undergraduate business or finance degree is a plus.
• Previous experience of working in a legal or business environment is a plus.

How to Apply:

Please submit the following items as your application:

• Unofficial law school transcript
• Resume

If interested in this opportunity, please apply directly to: Careers at Ciena.

All applications are due by Monday January 16, 2026.

Compensation

The hourly rate for this position is $27.50 CAD

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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.