Robotics Software Intern – Real-Time Controls Austin, TX

Apptronik Systems, Inc.; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Apptronik Systems, Inc. is seeking a Robotics Software Intern for Real-Time Controls in Austin, TX. The intern will contribute to the development of software enabling our humanoid robot Apollo to navigate and interact with its environment. Responsibilities include software module development and testing, sensor data integration, and performance analysis in a collaborative team environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for students pursuing degrees in Robotics, Computer Science, or related fields to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge embodied AI applications.

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of Modern C++ including classes and memory management.
• Proficient in Python for data tasks.
• Solid understanding of Newtonian physics and linear algebra.
• Familiarity with actuators, encoders, and IMUs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and test real-time C++ software modules.
• Integrate sensor data into core control loops.
• Validate mathematical models for robot limb positioning.
• Gather performance data from hardware and simulations.
• Write unit tests and maintain documentation.

Skills

Foundational C++

Scripting

Physics & Math Foundations

Robotics Basics

Development Tools

Collaborative Mindset

Education

BS, MS, or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field

Tools

Git

Linux

Job description

Robotics Software Intern – Real-Time Controls

Austin, TX

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.

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.