Intern - Mechanical Design Robotic Power Tools

About Origin

Origin (previously 10xConstruction) is building general-purpose autonomous robots for US construction to tackle rising costs, safety risks, and labour shortages. Our modular, multi-trade platform combines purpose-built hardware with real-time site intelligence to navigate complex environments and execute tasks with precision. Trained in high-fidelity simulation and already deployed on live sites, our robots deliver 5x faster execution, 250%+ margin expansion, and significant cost savings. Join India’s most talent-dense robotics team consisting of individuals from IITs, Stanford, UCLA, etc.

About the role

The Mechanical Engineering Intern - Robotic Power Tools role is a fast-paced, hands-on immersion into the physical realities of robotics. If you love taking things apart to see how they work and building new contraptions from the parts, this is the role for you. You will directly support the engineering team in turning off-the-shelf construction tools into robust robotic hardware.

Key Responsibilities

Teardowns & Reverse Engineering:

• Systematically disassemble off-the-shelf power tools (sanders, drills, sprayers), cataloging their internal mechanisms, bearings, and drivetrains.
• Use calipers and micrometers to measure existing tool housings and recreate critical mounting geometry in SolidWorks.

Lab Operations & Prototyping:

• Operate and maintain the lab's 3D printer fleet, managing print queues for rapid prototyping of tool adapters.
• Build rough physical mockups of tooling concepts using wood, aluminum extrusions, and zip-ties to test ergonomics and reachability.
• Maintain the mechanical workshop, ensuring fasteners, raw materials, and tools are organized.

Testing Support:

• Assist the engineering team in building calibration jigs and automated test fixtures for power tools.
• Run continuous operation tests on the tools and document points of failure or wear.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics.
• Hands-on Builder: You must have a history of building things (e.g., hobby robotics, woodworking, automotive repair).
• Basic CAD Skills: Comfortable navigating and creating basic parts in SolidWorks or Fusion360.
• Understanding of basic mechanical principles (levers, gears, fasteners).
• High energy, a strong safety mindset in the workshop, and a willingness to get your hands dirty.

Preferred Experiences

• Participated in a university engineering design team (e.g., SAE, Rover, Design Build Fly).
• Experience with manual fabrication (drilling, tapping, cutting metal).

For apprentice/Intern :
This is a six-month contract-to-hire position, with potential for longer-term opportunities depending on your contributions and interests. We’re excited to work with motivated individuals who are eager to support real-world robot development and grow alongside us.

• Gain experience in a dynamic startup environment at the forefront of robotics and AI innovation.
• Contribute to the development of technology that will revolutionize the construction industry.
• Work alongside a talented and passionate team committed to making a real-world impact.
• Learn from experienced professionals and gain valuable skills in robotics software engineering.
• Gain practical experience in a real-world engineering environment.
• Contribute to a project with the potential to make a significant impact on the construction industry.