Robotics Software Intern – Real-Time Controls

Apptronik; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 27,552 - 34,440; Full time

Job summary

Apptronik in Austin, TX is seeking a Real-Time Controls Intern to help develop software enabling Apollo to move and interact with the world. You will contribute to real-time controls by building and testing software layers that bridge high-level commands with hardware execution.

This role is designed for a student or researcher applying physics and programming to a production humanoid robot, ensuring systems perform reliably in real-world human environments.

Qualifications

• Pursuing BS/MS/PhD in Robotics, CS, ME, or EE
• Hands-on robotics projects or research in motion or simulation
• Foundational knowledge of physics, math, and programming

Responsibilities

• Develop and test real-time C++ software modules for robot motion
• Integrate sensor data and firmware feedback into control loops
• Implement and validate models for limb positioning and movement
• Build software interfaces translating high-level goals into tasks
• Collect and analyze performance data from hardware and simulations
• Write unit tests and maintain documentation for features
• Participate in code reviews within an agile team
• Uphold Apptronik values: CHIPC (Curiosity, Humility, Integrity, Passion, Creativity)

Skills

C++ basics

Python

Physics & math

Robotics basics

Git & Linux

Collaborative mindset

Education

Pursuing BS/MS/PhD in Robotics/CS/ME/EE

Tools

Git

Linux

Job description

Apptronik is a human-centered robotics company developing AI-powered robots to support humanity in every facet of life. Our flagship humanoid robot, Apollo, is built to collaborate thoughtfully with people, starting with critical industries such as manufacturing and logistics, with future applications in healthcare, the home, and beyond.

We operate at the cutting edge of embodied AI, applying our expertise across the full robotics stack to solve some of society's most important problems. You will join a team dedicated to bringing Apollo to market at scale, tackling the complex challenges like safety, commercialization, and mass production to change the world for the better.

JOB SUMMARY

As a Real-Time Controls Intern, you will play an active role in the development of the software that enables Apollo to move and interact with the world. You will contribute to the Real-Time Controls team by helping build and test the software layers that bridge high-level commands with physical hardware execution. This role is designed for a student or researcher eager to apply their knowledge of physics and programming to a production-grade humanoid robot, ensuring our systems perform reliably in real-world human environments.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support the development and testing of real-time C++ software modules that drive robot motion.
• Assist in the integration of sensor data and firmware feedback into the core control loops.
• Help implement and validate mathematical models used for robot limb positioning and movement.
• Contribute to the software interfaces that translate high-level behavioral goals into executable robot tasks.
• Gather and analyze performance data from both physical hardware and simulation environments.
• Write unit tests and maintain clear documentation for software features to ensure system stability.
• Participate in team code reviews and contribute to a collaborative, agile development process.
• Represent and lead with Apptronik's core values: CHIPC - Curiosity, Humility, Integrity, Passion, Creativity.

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Foundational C++: Basic understanding of Modern C++ (e.g., classes, memory management, and OOP principles).
• Scripting: Proficiency in Python for data analysis, automation, or testing.
• Physics & Math Foundations: Solid understanding of Newtonian physics (forces, torques) and linear algebra (vectors, matrices, and coordinate systems).
• Robotics Basics: Familiarity with standard robot components like actuators, encoders, and IMUs.
• Development Tools: Experience with Git for version control and comfort working in a Linux environment.
• Collaborative Mindset: Strong communication skills and a desire to solve complex problems within a multidisciplinary team.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Currently pursuing a BS, MS, or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Relevant experience through personal projects or academic research projects focused on robotics, motion, or physical simulation.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen.
• Hearing and speech to communicate.
• This is a direct hire. Please, no outside Agency solicitations.

Apptronik provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.