Creative Technologist Intern at Zoox in Foster City, CA

Summary: Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet, and they are seeking Creative Technologists to ideate and prototype hardware and software solutions for passenger experiences. The role involves prototyping multimodal experiences, conducting usability testing, and collaborating cross-functionally to integrate prototypes within vehicle constraints. Responsibilities: - Prototype multimodal experiences for autonomous vehicles at various fidelity levels from rapid concept explorations to high-fidelity interactive prototypes using industry-standard tools such as Figma, ProtoPie, Unity, and others - Conduct usability testing on passenger-facing interfaces, measuring perceived safety, trust, and interaction intuitiveness - Collaborate cross-functionally with designers, vehicle engineers, software teams, and operations to integrate prototypes within vehicle constraints, effectively communicating technical concepts and design rationale - Utilize our prototyping laboratory equipped for electro-mechanical prototyping and hardware-software integration - Document technical specifications and design intent for handoff to engineering teams, and present design concepts to stakeholders to gather feedback and iterate on solutions Required Qualifications: - Currently pursuing a M.S., PhD, or advanced degree in Design Engineering, Mechatronics, HCI, or related field - Good academic standing - Able to commit to a 12-week internship beginning in May or June 2026 - At least one previous industry internship, co-op, or hands-on project in a relevant area - Ability to relocate to the Bay Area, California for the duration of the internship - Interns at Zoox may not use any proprietary information they are working on as part of their thesis, any published work with their university, or distribute it to anyone outside of Zoox Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with programming languages (Python, C++, JavaScript/TypeScript) and modern web framework libraries (React, Vue.js ) for building interactive prototypes and interfaces - Experience with computer-aided design tools (Solidworks/CATIA preferred) - Understanding of fabrication workflows (3D printing, laser cutting, soldering) - Hands-on experience with microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi) or electronics prototyping - A portfolio demonstrating your prototyping and design experiences - Familiarity with real-time 3D engines (Unreal Engine, Unity), motion design, spatial computing experience - Familiarity in automotive systems (CAN bus, embedded Linux, ROS) - Familiarity with automotive HMI design and accessibility standards Required Skills: Programming languages, Computer-aided design tools, Microcontrollers Important Skills: Fabrication workflows, Real-time 3D engines, Automotive systems Nice-to-Have Skills: Prototyping experience, Design experience Benefits: Medical insurance, Housing stipend