Photonics Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Toyota’s Electronics Research Department (ERD) is looking for a passionate and highly motivated Silicon Photonics Senior Scientist.

The primary responsibility of this role is to research integrated silicon photonics to be applied to sensing, communication, and quantum photonic devices as well as free-space photonics device research.

The person in this role will report to the Senior Engineering Manager of ERD and have a passion for approaching new problems with novel solutions in integrated photonics and application of Meta surfaces for sensing (such as magnetometry, temperature field, or device prognostics), communications (such as optical transceivers, comb generation, entangled pair generation, single photon emission, or squeezed light analysis), and consideration of integration of non‑linear effects or active devices.

• Finalize the development and commissioning of an automated opto‑mechatronic test‑bench measurement system for integrated photonics. Lead the optical testing and characterization of incoming foundry tape‑outs.
• Support simulation, validation, and packaging plans for integrated photonics to meet research‑level timelines targeting state‑of‑the‑art performance parameters.
• Apply integrated photonic design methods and optimization techniques to exploit photonic and quantum‑photonic phenomena in chip‑scale packages to target mobility applications.
• Support collaboration with foundry vendors to understand technology stack potential, meet design submission tape‑out timelines and coordinate design rule checks.
• Coordinate with other ERD researchers and vendors to ensure successful co‑integration of electronic control of photonic circuits, including high speed signals and chip to chip packaging.
• Accelerate the design, simulation, and experimental validation of free‑space optical components (i.e. Lenses, Meta surfaces, etc.) including their integration and co‑optimization with camera sensor systems for research level proof of concept.
• Coordinate with lab operations staff to track critical items such as measurement samples, fiber and fiber array unit stock, and consumables.
• Publish your results in competitive scientific journals and conferences.
• Stay abreast of the most recent advancements in scientific literature related to integrated photonics and their applications and advancements at related foundries.
• Communicate research results, insights, and recommendations to stakeholders in a clear and concise manner, both verbally and through visualizations.
• Execute and monitor project timelines toward goal achievement. Provide updates and engage responsively with stakeholders, including reports to Japanese counterparts.
• Support communication with university research partners by enhancing technical understanding of collaborative work and input technical guidance.

This position is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

• Doctoral degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Physics, or other related technical disciplines.
• Must have a minimum of 4+ years of hands‑on experience designing and troubleshooting photonic lab benches, specifically involving optomechanical alignment, fiber array units (FAUs), and mechatronic automation (e.g., using Python APIs).
• Expertise in simulation and design of integrated photonic components using commercially available FDTD solvers (ex. Lumerical, Tidy3d, etc.).
• Ability to leverage electronic design automation (EDA) (ex. Python, Photon Forge, Lumerical, kiCAD etc.) to execute automated performance analysis on photonic integrated circuits and transfer design to artwork appropriate for design submission.
• Understanding of subsystem integration (e.g. Tx, Rx, Processor, Memory) into photonic systems and system analysis.
• Understanding of background of quantum‑photonics techniques and practical application in integrated photonics.
• Familiarity of simulation and design of free‑space optical system using ray tracing solvers (ex. Zemax, etc.).
• Skilled with rapid problem investigation and root‑cause investigation.
• Current work requirement has an onsite presence Monday – Thursday, and the option of remote work on Friday contingent upon the needs of the business.
• Must be willing to travel up to 10% domestically and internationally and maintain scheduling flexibility to participate in late‑evening meetings with Japan stakeholders as business needs require.

• Experience in the design, fabrication, or characterization of imaging Meta surfaces/Meta Lenses and their practical integration into camera systems.
• Experience in Quantum Magnetometry Methodology includes ODMR techniques.
• Co‑packaging experience to couple silicon photonic and electronic together in compact packages.
• Comfort in high‑speed RF signal simulation and validation for control and operation of silicon photonic devices.
• Experience with design optimization methods including gradient‑based, evolutionary, and AI‑driven (ex. neural network, physics‑informed neural network, etc.) techniques.
• Experience with utilizing process design kits (PDKs) to accelerate integrated photonic chip layout and design.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with keen attention to detail.
• Experience making clear and concise presentations, both written and oral, with consideration to international audiences.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, able to work effectively in cross‑functional teams.

• A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career, as well as tuition reimbursement
• Team Member Vehicle Purchase Discount
• Toyota Team Member Lease Vehicle Program (if applicable)
• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans for your entire family
• Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match, as well as an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of whether you contribute
• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Referral services related to prenatal services, adoption, childcare, schools and more
• Tax‑Advantaged Accounts (Health Savings Account, Health Care FSA, Dependent Care FSA)
• Relocation (if applicable)

Our success begins and ends with our people. We embrace all perspectives and value unique human experiences. Respect for all is our North Star. Toyota is proud to have 10+ different Business Partnering Groups across 100 different North American chapter locations that support team members’ efforts to dream, do and grow without questioning that they belong.

Applicants for our positions are considered without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, religion, military or veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Have a question, need assistance with your application or do you require any special accommodations? Please send an email to talent.acquisition@toyota.com.