Toyota Technical Center is the R&D hub for developing and testing the quality standards that drive our success. Founded in 1977 in California, TTC is a subsidiary of TMC Japan. TTC conducts research and development and works in everything from testing and evaluation of US parts and materials to emissions certification and technical research. TTC has operations in Michigan, California and Arizona, and is playing an increasingly important role in the design engineering and development of Toyota products, particularly those developed for the North American market.

Our Michigan facility is located in Ann Arbor and is comprised of Engineering Design, Parts Engineering, Materials Engineering, Powertrain Evaluation and Prototype Development. In July, 2002 the Vehicle Evaluation Groups will also be located in Michigan.

Our Engineering Design Activity works hand-in-hand with North American suppliers to develop parts and components for use at Toyota's North American Manufacturing plants and for export to Japan. Engineers are responsible for both initiating and modifying part designs.

Our Parts Engineering department is responsible for testing and evaluating the function and durability of prototype parts and components designed for use in North American vehicles and for export to Japan. Engineers work closely with suppliers in analyzing and evaluating parts to ensure compliance with Toyota's exacting quality and reliability standards.

The Material Engineering Department supports Toyota's North American vehicle development programs by selecting, evaluating and recommending domestically sourced materials. A major part of this activity's responsibility is to test and evaluate the physical, mechanical, chemical and environmental characteristics of materials used in prototype parts.

The Ann Arbor Powertrain division is broken down into two departments. The first is responsible for conducting emissions testing on all vehicles destined for sale in the US. As a part of this responsibility, the group is charged with obtaining the necessary federal emission certification to sell vehicles in all states except California. This department also reviews new engine technology, analyzes federal emission regulations and works closely with alternative fuels research. The second Powertrain Department acts as an engine-engineering design liaison between Toyota's North American manufacturing operations, Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan, and the company's domestic suppliers.

The Plymouth Prototype Lab is a mini-production plant, including inspection facilities, a welding line, an assembly line, and a paint facility. This department's primary objective is to duplicate the actual production process in a manufacturing plant in order to analyze the manufacturability of a design.

TTC's Vehicle Evaluation Departments in Torrance, California test, analyze and develop vehicle dynamics and vehicle systems in an effort to meet the demands of North American driving conditions and consumer preferences. Engineers evaluate and refine the ride, handling, brakes and stability of Toyota prototype and production vehicles targeted for North America. many of the tests are conducted in extremely hot and cold climates under a variety of road conditions to measure the dynamics of vehicle performance in real-world conditions. In addition, this activity looks at vehicle systems and how to best tune systems. These evaluation tests examine such areas as ergonomics, vehicle electronics, audio systems, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, noise, vibration and harshness. Many of the vehicle evaluation functions will be relocated to Ann Arbor, Michigan in 2002.

TTC's Powertrain Evaluation Department in Gardenia, California handles powertrain evaluation and calibrating with attention on performance, fuel economy, drivability, emission control systems and overall stability for the North American market. The group conducts engine transmission and drive line evaluations.

TTC has one of the largest test tracks at the Toyota Arizona Proving Groung. This track provides facilities for rigorous performance and durability tests under the harshest conditions found in the Arizona desert. Members of the Vehicle Evaluation Department have the facility's 10-mile high speed oval track, ride and handling course, dirt course, straightaway, brake test area, and steep grade area to simulate just about any road and driving condition in the United States.

TTC's Team Associates are challenged and rewarded as part of the team that defines our vision. TTC offers a range of career options for the experienced or recent college graduate seeking a stimulating work environment and an opportunity for career growth and development. We offer a highly competitive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care; life insurance; short and long term disability; 401K retirement savings plan; pension plan; flexible spending accounts, vehicle purchase plan; tuition reimbursement and ongoing training and education; and paid vacations and holidays.

Candidates interested in positions are encouraged to submit their resumes to our Corporate Recruiting email address at jobs@ttc-usa.com All resumes submitted must include a department code or job code.

TTC is an equal opportunity employer.