During the 1990s, Jena joined cinematographer P. C. Sreeram's unit as an assistant cameraman.
Later in 1996, he joined cinematographer Jeeva, a former assistant of Sreeram, as an operating cameraman.
He apprenticed under Jeeva in Indian (1996), Ullasam (1997), Vaali (1999), Kushi (2000), Run (2002), Zor, Hera Pheri and Yeh Teraa Ghar Yeh Meraa Ghar.
Jena got his first break with the short film Silent Scream, directed by Vikram Kumar.
His other works include Oka Oorilo, Aegan, Love Khichdi and Ala Modalaindi.