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 Packaging Technologist, R&D to support the fabrication and process team in producing our PICTOR coupling solution. The Photonic Packaging Technologist will be responsible for building integrated photonic assemblies containing optical fibres, lasers, silicon photonic chips, and CMOS electronics chips. This role is suited to a hands-on technical contributor who thrives in a lab environment. You will work closely with the fabrication and process team, performing hands-on microfabrication, component assembly, and testing. This is a strong fit for someone who is detail-oriented, comfortable with cleanroom protocols, and passionate about advancing the state-of-the-art in photonic packaging. As Dream Photonics continues to scale, you'll play an important role in developing repeatable fabrication and packaging processes while maintaining the precision, quality, and attention to detail required for advanced photonic manufacturing.

What You Will Do

To fabricate said assemblies, the technologist will utilize numerous pieces of equipment, including two-photon-lithography equipment in the UBC QMI Nanofabrication facility. As such, the technologist should be comfortable working in a clean room environment. The technologist will also perform packaging processes, including attaching small components and chips to carriers and encapsulating them. This work requires that the technologist possess a high degree of dexterity and attention to detail. The technologist will follow process procedures and produce specifications and documentation to manage the fabrication of assemblies and processes.

This work includes the following responsibilities

Plans and delivers nanofabrication process work for the realization of micro- and nano-structured devices, using techniques that include, but are not limited to, 3D printing, electrical wire bonding, die attach, metrology, and testing. Works on a number of different projects, that includes internal stakeholders and customers. Carries out processing of existing nano/micro-fabrication and packaging techniques. Monitors process performance to ensure that these processes remain operational and perform to specifications. Perform measurements to characterize the devices by generating test programs. Interacts with team members to report on results, coordinate work, and ship parts. Produces the necessary documentation and technical reports on the work done to present internally and/or externally to clients and customers. Keeps inventory of required materials and orders as required. Assists with shipping and receiving of parts to and from customers and suppliers. Balance precision craftsmanship with project priorities, delivering high-quality assemblies that support development milestones and commercialization objectives.

Required Qualifications

Diploma from a college or technical institute in engineering technology, applied science, photonics, microfabrication, electronics, mechanical technology, or a related field. A BASc/BEng or equivalent is acceptable where the candidate has strong hands-on fabrication experience; Proven experience working in a cleanroom environment, including micro/nano-fabrication (e.g., lithography, resist processing, wet bench chemistry); Prior hands-on experience with device fabrication or packaging, ideally with photonic or semiconductor devices; Demonstrated manual dexterity and close attention to detail for handling small components and chips; Experience with CAD software such as OnShape, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD for the design of component submounts and housings; Strong communication and analytical skills, with a track record of cross-functional collaboration; Minimum 2+ years of optical or photonic component fabrication;

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in photonics, semiconductor, advanced manufacturing, or other complex hardware environments Working knowledge of Python for instrument I/O and data handling; Understanding of silicon photonics packaging and hybrid integration assembly; Experience in an early-stage startup or fast-moving product development environment; Ability to work outside of regular business hours as needed.

Personal Attributes

We are looking for someone who brings: Learning Ability; Conceptual Thinking; Excellence Standards; Motivation/Drive; Personal Integrity.

Location and Work Model

This is an on-site role based in Vancouver, BC.

Compensation: $80,000 to $90,000 CAD per year, depending on experience

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.