Very old school and compensation is not competitive in the Bay area - Recruiter Ciena Employee Review

1.0
Nov 12, 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Has some really bring people, a few good leaders who are holding the company

Cons

Narrow minded leadership, particularly in Engineering. They're a company that doesn't move at the same pace as some of the other firms in the Bay area, but that doesn't give it a reason to be frugal or cheap at getting good talent. HR gets in the way in the Bay area, particularly with talent acquisition. There's a few old guards that have created a bad culture, and it impacts a lot of mid/senior level managers and individual contributors- particularly those that would like to grow their careers. Low compensation makes it hard to attract good talent.

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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