Robotics Intern, Prototyping and Research Operations
Toyota Research Institute
Summary
The Prototyping and Research Operations (PROps) team supports and operationalizes TRI's robotics research to succeed at scale in laboratory and deployment environments. We work across engineering and operations disciplines to develop robot hardware and testing setups, as well as operate and deploy robotic research systems to collect data for researchers. Our team administers the two prototyping laboratories within TRI and uses those facilities to prototype research hardware.
Job description
The Team
The Prototyping and Research Operations (PROps) team supports and operationalizes TRI's robotics research to succeed at scale in laboratory and deployment environments. We work across engineering and operations disciplines to develop robot hardware and testing setups, as well as operate and deploy robotic research systems to collect data for researchers. Our team administers the two prototyping laboratories within TRI and uses those facilities to prototype research hardware.
The Internship
The intern who joins our team will have the opportunity to contribute to the work of our various research support projects and the daily tasks that keep our researchers productive by:
- Maintaining and improving the lab: working with the lab manager on organizational tasks, fulfilling fabrication requests, maintaining and fixing the manufacturing equipment and robot systems, and improving lab workflow and tooling.
- Supporting our operations projects: collaborating with Research Operations Engineers to design and coordinate events, improve data collection processes, and maintain testing and deployment documentation.
Requirements
- Engineering, Robotics, or Computer Science student (undergrad junior or senior, or a master's student)
- Driven to learn new skills and become adept at new systems, processes, and tools
- Experience with rapid prototyping tools (3D printers, laser cutters, hand tools, etc.) and time spent in a lab environment designing, prototyping, and manufacturing components and assemblies
- Experience in creative and novel mechanical, electrical or software design work and employing rapid prototyping techniques
- A safety-first mentality
- Familiarity with UNIX/Linux systems
- Experience executing and summarizing system tests and results
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Paid Time Off
- Holiday Pay
- Sick Time
Company overview
Toyota Research Institute (TRI) is a premier research and development subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, established in 2016 with a $1 billion investment over five years. Headquartered in Los Altos, California with additional offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts, TRI focuses on advancing technologies in artificial intelligence, robotics, automated driving, and materials science. Led by CEO Dr. Gill Pratt, a renowned roboticist and former DARPA official, the institute employs 201-500 highly skilled researchers, over half of whom hold PhD degrees. TRI's mission is to amplify human ability and improve quality of life through technological innovation, with specific research areas including human-centered AI, energy and materials science, human interactive driving, and robotics. The institute collaborates with academic institutions and industry partners to develop cutting-edge solutions for mobility challenges, battery technology, and sustainable energy systems. TRI operates as an independent research entity within the Toyota ecosystem, maintaining a startup-like culture while benefiting from Toyota's substantial resources and global automotive expertise.