Photonics Engineer

Job summary

Photonics Engineer, R&D Dream Photonics Inc. | Vancouver, BC | Full-time | On-site Compensation: $90,000 to $110,000 CAD per year, depending on experience About Dream Photonics Dream Photonics is a deep-tech startup based in Vancouver, BC, developing advanced manufacturing technology for next-generation photonic systems. We are developing PICTORTM, a manufacturing platform that uses precision 3D printing to create high-efficiency, low-loss optical connections for photonic integrated circuits. Our technology addresses one of the central bottlenecks in advanced photonics: how to reliably conne…

Job details

Photonics Engineer, R&D Dream Photonics Inc. | Vancouver, BC | Full-time | On-site Compensation: $90,000 to $110,000 CAD per year, depending on experience About Dream Photonics Dream Photonics is a deep-tech startup based in Vancouver, BC, developing advanced manufacturing technology for next-generation photonic systems. We are developing PICTORTM, a manufacturing platform that uses precision 3D printing to create high-efficiency, low-loss optical connections for photonic integrated circuits. Our technology addresses one of the central bottlenecks in advanced photonics: how to reliably connect light into and out of chips at scale. Our work is directly connected to the future of AI data centres, optical modules, high-performance computing, quantum technologies, sensing, and defence. As AI infrastructure pushes beyond the limits of conventional electronics, photonics is becoming essential for moving data faster, more efficiently, and with lower power. Dream Photonics is helping make that transition possible by rethinking how optical interconnects are designed, manufactured, and packaged. Backed by angel, venture capital, and strategic investors, and supported by active customer engagement, and government funding programs, we are scaling from an R&D team into a product company. We move fast, build technology with real-world impact, and team members meaningful ownership of the problems they solve. If you are excited by the intersection of optics, semiconductors, 3D printing, and advanced manufacturing, Dream Photonics is a place where you can help define the future of photonic hardware. The Role We are looking for a Photonics Engineer, R&D to support the optical design team in developing the PICTOR software solution. You will develop simulation workflows for PICTOR lenses for optical components, including lasers, PICs, and fiber. This role will focus on the design of 3D printed couplers and PIC coupling interfaces, in addition to PIC layout for the development of PICTOR couplers. What You Will Do Support the optical design team in developing the PICTOR software solution by developing simulation workflows for PICTOR lenses for lasers, PICs, and fiber. Focus on the design of 3D printed couplers and PIC coupling interfaces. Perform PIC layout, primarily for development of the PICTOR couplers. Author clear technical documentation, including test plans, SOPs, and technical reports. Collaborate with packaging and design teams to align on product iterations. Present R&D summaries and design results to internal stakeholders. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering, Applied Physics, Physics, Materials Science, or a related engineering or applied science discipline. Relevant experience working in a lab environment. Prior experience with photonic integrated circuits (PICs), lasers, and optical fibers. Demonstrated proficiency in Python for data handling and analysis. Experience with electromagnetic simulation methods such as FDTD, beam propagation, ray tracing. Proficiency with GDSII layout tools (KLayout, L-Edit) and foundry PDKs. Proven ability to author clear technical documentation (test plans, reports, or SOPs). Strong communication and analytical skills, with a track record of cross-functional collaboration. Preferred Qualifications Hands-on experience with optical test equipment (e.g., lasers, power monitors, or spectrum analyzers). Understanding of silicon photonics packaging and hybrid integration assembly. Experience in software development for electromagnetic simulations and chip layout. Experience in an early-stage startup or fast-moving product development environment. Personal Attributes Required: Analytical Problem Solving Creativity / Innovation Clear Written Communication. Preferred: Initiative Collaboration. Location and Work Model This is an on-site role based in Vancouver, BC. How to Apply Send your resume and a brief note describing your interest in the role to: careers@dreamphotonics.com Use the subject line: REQ-2026-04 - Photonics Engineer, R&D Team Building Equity, diversity and inclusion are essential to our company’s growth. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the BC Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Métis, Inuit, or Indigenous person.

What you’ll do

Support the optical design team in developing the PICTOR software solution by creating simulation workflows for optical components. Focus on the design of 3D printed couplers and PIC coupling interfaces, and perform PIC layout for the development of PICTOR couplers.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering or applied science discipline is required, along with relevant lab experience and proficiency in Python. Candidates should have experience with photonic integrated circuits, lasers, and optical fibers, as well as strong communication and analytical skills.

Listed skills

• Software · Preferred
• Analytical · Preferred
• Technical · Preferred
• precision · Preferred
• Packaging · Preferred
• Documentation · Preferred
• Communication · Preferred
• Development · Preferred
• Time · Preferred
• future · Preferred
• Strong Communication · Preferred
• efficiency · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Photonics
• Optical Design
• 3D Printing
• Simulation Workflows
• PIC Layout
• Technical Documentation
• Collaboration
• Python
• Electromagnetic Simulation
• GDSII Layout Tools
• Analytical Skills
• Communication Skills
• Optical Test Equipment
• Silicon Photonics
• Software Development