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Internship Soft Robotics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Internship Soft Robotics information

What are Internship Soft Robotics positions?

Internship Soft Robotics positions are temporary roles for students or early-career professionals to gain hands-on experience working in the field of soft robotics. These internships typically involve assisting with research, design, prototyping, testing, and sometimes programming of soft robotic systems, which are robots made from flexible materials that mimic biological organisms. Interns work closely with experienced engineers and researchers, contributing to ongoing projects in academia, industry, or research labs. The goal is to develop practical skills and a deeper understanding of soft robotics concepts, preparing interns for future careers in robotics, engineering, or related fields.

What is the difference between Internship Soft Robotics vs Robotics Engineer?

AspectInternship Soft RoboticsRobotics Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of engineering or robotics programBachelor's or higher in robotics, mechanical, or electrical engineering
Work EnvironmentEducational, training-focused, often in labs or academic settingsProfessional, project-driven, in industry or research labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, startupsTech companies, manufacturing, research labs
Common Search & ComparisonLearning, entry-level experience, trainingDesign, development, implementation of robotic systems

Internship Soft Robotics typically involves students or recent graduates gaining hands-on experience in soft robotics within educational or research settings. Robotics Engineers are professionals responsible for designing and developing robotic systems in industry or research environments. While internships focus on learning and skill development, robotics engineering roles require advanced credentials and involve full project responsibilities.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during an Internship in Soft Robotics?

As a Soft Robotics intern, you'll typically assist with designing, fabricating, and testing soft robotic components and systems, often using materials like silicone or flexible polymers. You may work closely with engineers and researchers to prototype new actuators, sensors, or robotic grippers, and contribute to experiments that evaluate their performance. Interns often participate in weekly team meetings, document their findings, and may present results to the team. This hands-on experience is highly collaborative and offers exposure to advanced lab equipment and interdisciplinary teamwork, providing a valuable foundation for a future career in robotics or related fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Soft Robotics, and why are they important?

To thrive as an intern in Soft Robotics, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, materials science, or a related field, with coursework or project experience in robotics. Familiarity with CAD software, programming languages like Python or MATLAB, and rapid prototyping tools such as 3D printers is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and the ability to work collaboratively in a research-driven environment set outstanding candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for contributing meaningfully to innovative projects and adapting to the interdisciplinary challenges of soft robotics.
What are the most commonly searched types of Soft Robotics jobs in California? The most popular types of Soft Robotics jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Internship Soft Robotics jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Soft Robotics jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Internship Soft Robotics jobs? Cities in California with the most Internship Soft Robotics job openings:

Part-Time Student Worker Technical Program Manager

Zoox

Foster City, CA โ€ข On-site

$30/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

About Zoox
Zoox is an autonomous ridehailing company building the world's first purpose-built robotaxi - fully electric, bidirectional, with no steering wheel or driver's seat. Backed by Amazon and founded to make transportation safer, cleaner, and more accessible, Zoox designs its vehicles entirely around the rider. We're currently operating in Las Vegas and San Francisco, with Austin and Miami on the horizon, and testing underway across seven U.S. markets.
About Our Part-Time Student Worker Program
Zoox's part-time student worker program puts you at the center of one of the most ambitious challenges in transportation. You'll contribute to real projects, work alongside engineers and researchers pushing the boundaries of autonomous technology, and gain experience that goes well beyond the classroom. We're looking for students who bring strong academic foundations, curiosity that doesn't stop at coursework, and a drive to be part of something that matters.
Role Overview
Manage Autonomy Software program planning and execution. Track and resolve cross-functional engineering dependencies. Drive the adoption of standard engineering processes. Participate actively in core technical discussions.
Responsibilities
  • Manage Autonomy Software program planning and execution.
  • Track and resolve cross-functional engineering dependencies.
  • Drive the adoption of standard engineering processes.
  • Enable engineering team with program milestones and processes
  • Participate in technical discussions and be a partner with engineering in delivering complex programs

Required Qualifications
  • Participate actively in core technical discussions.
  • Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, AI, Robotics, or a related field.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in Python and familiarity with modern AI developer tools (e.g., Claude, Cursor).
  • PM Tools: Experience utilizing Jira, Smartsheet, and Confluence for tracking and collaboration.

Bonus Qualifications
  • Soft Skills: Excellent communicator with a proactive, "can-do" approach to problem-solving.
  • Understanding of Autonomy stack

Program Requirements
  • Currently enrolled in a B.S. or M.S. program in a relevant discipline.
  • Available to commit to a minimum six-month assignment.
  • Able to commit a minimum of 20 hours per week (40 hours preferable).
  • Able to work on-site at one of our office locations.
  • Must adhere with Zoox confidentiality requirements, including refraining from using or sharing proprietary company information outside of Zoox, such as in academic research, theses, publications, or presentations.

We want to be transparent: this is not an internship. The Part-Time Student Worker Program is designed to complement your academic experience by providing meaningful, ongoing work alongside your studies. Rather than participating in a cohort-based program, you'll join a team directly and contribute to real projects with real impact.
While the program does not include structured intern programming or a pathway to full-time employment, it offers valuable opportunities to learn, develop new skills, and gain hands-on experience in a professional environment.
Compensation for this role is $30/hour.
This is a contract position; employment will be through a vendor contracted with Zoox. The hourly rate is as posted, and benefits eligibility is determined by the vendor.
About Zoox
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We're looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
Follow us on LinkedIn
Accommodations
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to [email protected] or your assigned recruiter.
A Final Note:
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.