About the role#
We are looking for a Mechanical Engineering Intern to join our robot hardware development and testing group. This is a paid, 12-week internship based in our Cambridge office. You will help us build, test, and maintain robotic systems while working alongside a multidisciplinary team.
What you'll do#
- Design, fabricate, order, and assemble robotic systems and test spaces, including structural and electromechanical parts.
- Collaborate across teams to define project requirements and support hardware needs.
- Iterate rapidly on robot component designs.
- Maintain and repair robotic systems to keep the lab safe, clean, and effective.
- Plan, execute, and document testing activities.
- Communicate test conditions and results clearly to the team.
What you'll need#
- Current undergraduate or master's student in engineering with a focus on hardware.
- Understanding of mechanical components and robot sensors.
- Experience with rapid prototyping tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and hand tools.
- Solid skills in mechanical CAD software such as Onshape or SolidWorks.
- Experience designing, running, and summarizing system tests.
- A desire to deploy and test robots in and out of the lab.
- Willingness to ask questions and communicate openly.
- Bonus points for experience with small-scale contract manufacturing, electronic assembly (soldering, crimping, wire routing), and programming in Python, C++, or MATLAB.
Location & details#
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- Work Modality: Hybrid.
- Commitment: Full-time internship.
About Toyota Research Institute
Toyota Research Institute is a research organization founded in 2016. Based in Los Altos, California, it operates as a subsidiary of Toyota. The company focuses on artificial intelligence, robotics, automated driving, and material sciences. Its staff of approximately 485 employees works to develop technology for vehicles and robots while researching new materials for batteries and fuel cells.
How to get in at Toyota Research Institute
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