Optical Test Engineer, R&D

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 give 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 an Optical Test Engineer, R&D, to support the test and characterization team in developing the PICTORTM coupling solution. The Optical Test Engineer will be responsible for performing testing on standalone and integrated photonic components such as lasers, PICs, and fibre that utilize PICTORTM lenses for coupling.

This role will focus on utilizing optical free-space and fibre-based measurement apparatus to characterize photonic components and systems. You'll generate reliable, high-quality data that informs product development, validates design decisions, and supports the commercialization of Dream Photonics' technology. This is a strong fit for someone who possesses a strong analytical mindset and attention to detail and is passionate about instrument control, automation, and data processing.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys combining rigorous experimental work with automation, data analysis, and collaborative problem-solving in a fast-paced startup environment.

What You Will Do

The Optical Test Engineer will perform characterization and testing of photonic integrated circuits (PICs), lasers, and optical fibres. This work includes the following responsibilities:

• Utilize optical free-space and fibre-based measurement apparatus for automated and manual PIC characterization, beam profilometry, and laser characterization;
• Develop and maintain Python-based measurement scripts for instrument control and automation;
• Execute data analysis pipelines using NumPy, Pandas, and SciPy to extract key metrics such as insertion loss and bandwidth;
• Author clear technical documentation, including test plans, SOPs, and technical reports;
• Collaborate with packaging and design teams to align on test requirements and product iterations;
• Present R&D summaries and test results to internal stakeholders.
• Balance experimental investigation with project priorities, ensuring testing activities support development milestones and commercialization objectives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Physics, Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Systems), Applied Physics, Physics, or Materials Science
• Hands-on experience with electronics test equipment for characterization of photonic integrated circuits, lasers, and optical fibres
• Demonstrated proficiency in Python for instrument control, data handling, and analysis
• Proven ability to author clear technical documentation such as test plans, reports, or SOPs
• Strong communication and analytical skills, with a track record of cross-functional collaboration
• Minimum 3+ years of optical or photonic component characterization
• Experience in photonics, semiconductor, or other complex hardware environments

Assets

• Proficiency with GDSII layout tools (KLayout, L-Edit) and foundry PDKs
• Experience with electromagnetic simulation methods (FDTD, beam propagation, ray tracing)
• Understanding of silicon photonics packaging and hybrid integration assembly
• Experience in an early-stage startup or fast-moving product development environment

Personal Attributes

• Analytical Problem Solving
• Pragmatism
• Excellence Standards

Location and Work Model

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

Compensation: $90,000 to $110,000 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.