Scale Prototyping Shop Intern - Innovation Works, Inc.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, maintain, and implement equipment preventative maintenance and repair procedures; organize equipment manuals and technical documentation
• Maintain a culture of safety for themselves and others while working in a shared shop.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose technical issues with prototyping equipment
• Fabricate electrical and mechanical systems based on technical documentation provided by RF-users or RF Scale teammates
• Support Robotics Factory Residents in fabricating their prototypes
• Ensure the shop stays clean, safe, and well-organized by checking inventory, tidying up, and inspiring Residents to follow shop procedures
• Support the addition of new supplies, equipment, and software needed to assist startup companies.
• Communicate effectively with RF-users & IW staff that possess a wide range of skills & experience.

Secondary Responsibilities

• Use the Scale Shop resources to assist startup companies with mechanical fabrication, testing, and design for manufacturability.
• Support the Manufacturing team in providing Level 1 & Level 2 Safety Training
• Support the Manufacturing team in regular preventative maintenance and repair of the Scale Shop equipment.
• Auxiliary in selecting prototyping equipment
• Support Innovation Works events, particularly RF Scale community building events like Tear Downs, First Thursday, and open shop Build Nights
• Review and provide feedback on the design and technical documentation
• Auxiliary in RF-users' electrical and mechanical component selection and procurement.
• Create training and educational materials for design and fabrication techniques that utilize Scale Shop equipment.

Qualifications & Skills, Required

• An academic background in mechanical, electrical, or mechatronics engineering (or related fields)
• Hands-on experience with basic prototyping tools: soldering, breadboarding, 3D printing, CAD, etc.
• Familiarity with microcontrollers (Arduino, etc.) and simple circuits
• Interest in sharing knowledge and helping others troubleshoot technical challenges
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed

Qualifications & Skills, Preferred

• Experience with circuit design software (e.g., KiCad, Eagle)
• Programming experience in Python or C/C++
• Robotics or automation projects (coursework or personal)
• Prior experience in a makerspace, lab, or shared workshop
• Experience using electronic testing and analysis equipment (e.g., digital storage oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers) for performing signal analysis and data interpretation
• Experience analyzing, selecting, and sourcing electronic components for custom electromechanical systems and PCBs
• Entrepreneurial experience; ability to work with budgets, estimate costs, and manage time
• Experience working directly with external customers in a service capacity

Work Environment

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Must be able to work in a prototyping environment with exposure to noise, machinery, electrical, and other related hazards
• May require occasional evening and weekend shifts based on project demands.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) with company match.
• Paid time off and holiday pay.
• Opportunities for career growth and continued training.