Los Altos, CA; San Francisco, CA; Remote Hybrid Full-time USD 120,000 – 155,000 / year

Toyota Research Institute is hiring a VC Associate

About the Role

The associate will evaluate investment opportunities, conduct technical due diligence, and support portfolio company engagement in the fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, and related technologies.

Responsibilities

  • Assess emerging startups in artificial intelligence and robotics for potential investment
  • Perform in-depth technical and market analysis of early-stage companies
  • Collaborate with internal researchers to understand technology viability
  • Prepare investment memos and presentation materials for review committees
  • Engage with founders and external partners to gather insights
  • Monitor developments in deep tech and venture capital ecosystems
  • Track performance of existing portfolio companies
  • Support deal execution including term sheet evaluation and negotiation
  • Organize and participate in internal investment review meetings
  • Build financial models to assess startup valuation and growth potential
  • Identify trends in automation, machine learning, and sensor technologies
  • Maintain relationships with venture funds and innovation hubs
  • Contribute to strategic planning for investment focus areas
  • Assist in organizing founder outreach and pitch events
  • Evaluate intellectual property strength and technical differentiation
  • Provide updates on investment performance to stakeholders
  • Work cross-functionally with engineering and product teams
  • Conduct reference checks and third-party validation
  • Summarize findings in clear, concise reports
  • Stay current with regulatory and ethical considerations in AI
  • Support post-investment integration and collaboration efforts
  • Identify potential co-investment opportunities
  • Assist in managing investment documentation and compliance
  • Contribute to thought leadership on emerging technology trends
  • Help refine investment thesis based on market feedback

Compensation

Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience

Work Arrangement

Full-time, on-site position

Team

Collaborative environment focused on advancing AI and robotics research

About the Team

  • A multidisciplinary group of scientists, engineers, and investors working at the intersection of research and commercialization
  • Focused on translating cutting-edge research into real-world applications
  • Collaborates closely with academic institutions and startup ecosystems
  • Emphasizes long-term technological impact over short-term gains
  • Supports open innovation and knowledge sharing

What We Value

  • Intellectual rigor and technical depth
  • Integrity in decision-making
  • Collaborative problem-solving
  • Curiosity-driven exploration
  • Responsible development of technology

Available for qualified candidates

About company
Toyota Research Institute

Toyota Research Institute (TRI) envisions a future where Toyota products, enabled by TRI technology, dramatically improve quality of life for individuals and society.

TRI’s mission is to create new tools and capabilities focused on improving the human condition. Its research spans Automated Driving Advanced Development, Energy & Materials, Human-Centered AI, Human Interactive Driving, and Robotics.

TRI is fueled by a diverse and inclusive community of people with unique backgrounds, dedicated to fostering an innovative and collaborative environment through values like Be Yourself, Respect One Another, and Always Learn.

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Job Details
Department Venture Capital – Toyota Ventures
Category other
Posted 5 months ago