About the role#
The Scale Prototyping Shop Intern supports robotics startups through the Innovation Works Scale program. You will work in the Scale Shop to help residents move from initial ideas to functional prototypes. This role involves direct support for product development, equipment management, and maintaining a safe, organized workspace for users. You will report to the Manufacturing Program Manager.
What you'll do#
- Maintain, repair, and troubleshoot prototyping equipment while keeping technical documentation organized.
- Fabricate mechanical and electrical systems for robotics startups.
- Assist residents with design for manufacturability, component selection, and procurement.
- Ensure the shop remains clean, safe, and well-stocked with necessary supplies.
- Lead safety training sessions and help enforce shop procedures.
- Create educational materials regarding design and fabrication techniques.
- Support community events like Build Nights, Tear Downs, and First Thursday.
- Communicate technical guidance to users with varying levels of experience.
What you'll need#
- Academic background in mechanical, electrical, or mechatronics engineering.
- Hands-on experience with CAD, 3D printing, soldering, and breadboarding.
- Familiarity with microcontrollers like Arduino and basic circuit design.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a desire to help others troubleshoot technical challenges.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including potential evenings or weekends.
- Preferred: Experience with Python, C/C++, KiCad, or Eagle.
- Preferred: Prior experience in a makerspace, lab, or shared workshop.
- Preferred: Experience with electronic testing equipment like oscilloscopes or spectrum analyzers.
- Preferred: Entrepreneurial experience managing budgets and project costs.
Location & details#
- Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
- Modality: On-site.
- Commitment: 16 to 29 hours per week.
- Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods in a workshop environment with exposure to machinery and noise.
About Innovation Works
Innovation Works is a nonprofit investor based in Pittsburgh. Founded in 1999, the organization focuses on early-stage technology startups within southwestern Pennsylvania. It supports companies in the hardware, software, and life sciences sectors. The firm operates as part of the Ben Franklin Technology Partners network and runs several startup programs including AlphaLab and the Robotics Factory.
How to get in at Innovation Works
Applying early to Innovation Works gives you a distinct advantage, as recruiters often review the first wave of candidates before the applicant pool becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you get your materials in before the pile grows. You should aim to be among the first to submit your application to ensure your resume receives proper attention. Reaching out to the recruiters behind the company's roles directly often improves your response rates compared to submitting through a general portal. Intern Insider surfaces the specific contacts for these positions so you can ask about the role or request a referral. Connecting with the right person at Innovation Works shows initiative and helps you stand out from the crowd.
