Lab Inventory Support Technician

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena builds the critical infrastructure powering the AI era. We’re a technology company shaping the future of networking, guided by innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Through development opportunities, meaningful work, and flexibility, Ciena supports growth and well-being—on and off the job. Connect with a career that matters.

The Lab Inventory Support Technician enables reliable on-site lab operations for the Ciena New Jersey team by maintaining equipment inventory, organizing lab spaces, and resolving first-level technical requests. Reporting to the Manager of Lab Management Engineering, the role works on-site weekdays to help the lab user community access, configure, and maintain the equipment and infrastructure needed for engineering work. 

How you will make an impact:

• Receive delivered materials and telecom equipment using the inventory control system (GEMS), confirm alignment with purchase order quantity, condition, and model specifications, and coordinate equipment and material shipments with the logistics team, including marshalling, scanning, and shipping-document creation.

• Update inventory control databases from generated reports using hand-held barcode scanners and conduct periodic physical inventory audits of optical systems and lab equipment.

• Organize the lab, storage rooms, and receiving areas to enable efficient storage and proper equipment handling.

• Resolve lab requests and perform basic troubleshooting for lab infrastructure and equipment under design or test.

• Reconfigure Ciena optical systems using detailed information or drawings supplied by system owners or project primes, and investigate network infrastructure, Ethernet connectivity, terminal server access, and serial port access for lab equipment.

• Investigate basic computing, test-equipment, and signal-source issues; install software loads; troubleshoot and repair Ciena equipment; and connect, clean, and troubleshoot optical fibers.

• Guide the lab user community on lab processes; locate, install, remove, relocate, inventory, and maintain equipment; and maintain accurate records of support-request details.

The must haves:

• Education: College diploma as a Technician is preferred.

• Experience: Background in R&D lab management and support organizations.

• Knowledge of basic IT and networking skills.

• Experience with inventory database systems is preferred.

• Detail orientation and ability to adapt and learn quickly.

• Initiative and willingness to work overtime as needed.

Pay Range:

The hourly pay range for this position is $33.89/hr - $54.18/hr. 

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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.

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.