Proception — Careers — 🌱 Mechanical Engineering Intern (6-12 months)
🌱 Mechanical Engineering Intern (6-12 months)
Location: Palo Alto, CA (On-Site)/Internship
About the role
At Proception, we are pioneering the future of robotics by developing highly dexterous humanoid manipulators and next-generation sensors. Our mission is to bridge the gap between human-like dexterity and robotics by combining cutting-edge mechanical design, novel sensing technologies, and advanced control systems. We're looking for a hands-on Mechanical Engineering Intern to join our robotics team. You'll play a key role in developing and testing advanced robotic hand systems, working closely with actuators, mechanical fixtures, and full-hand integration.
Requirements
- Strong understanding of fundamental physics and engineering from first principles
- Strong communication skills and high attention to details
- Experience designing and building quality prototypes quickly
- Experienced in using CAD software to design parts with complex geometry
- Experience with conventional machining and rapid prototyping methods
- Experience with precision design and manufacturing
- Experience with SolidWorks or Fusion 360
- Experience with actuators and geartrains (strain-wave, planetary, cycloidal, or ball screws)
- Experience with electromechanical integration (sensors, motors, motor drivers, wire harnesses, and communication buses)
- 1+ years of mechanical engineering industry experience, including owning products from concept to production
- (+) Experience with humanoids, exoskeletons, prosthetics, soft robots, or tendon drives
- (+) Experience with testing and validation of mechanical systems
- (+) Experience with basic python and C/C++ for scripting and testing workflows
Details & responsibilities
- Design structural components for humanoid robots
- Perform testing and characterization of individual fingers and full hand systems
- Develop mechanical test fixtures and jigs
- Assist with debugging, tuning, and performance validation of hardware
- Support design iterations based on test feedback and failure analysis
- Collaborate with hardware, firmware, and AI teams to build integrated robotic systems
- High ownership and opportunity to contribute to the core of the company
- Push the boundaries of what is possible in robotics and AI
Compensation & benefits
- Work alongside a world-class robotics team
- Hands-on experience with next-gen humanoid systems
- Exposure to real-world design, testing, and iteration cycles
- Opportunity for full-time conversion based on performance
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