Creative Technologist Intern

Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet. We're seeking Creative Technologists to ideate and prototype hardware and software solutions for passenger experiences, from lighting and spatial audio to haptic feedback and interactive interfaces. You'll bridge design vision and engineering reality, working across Experience Design, Product Management, UX Research, Vehicle Engineering, Software, and Fleet Operations teams. You will work alongside other creative technologists and designers in our experience lab, to create experiences from low-fidelity concept explorations to high-fidelity interactive prototypes.

In this Role, You Will...

• 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

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a B.S., M.S., 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

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

Bonus Qualifications

• 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

Compensation

The monthly salary range for this position is $5,500 to $8,500. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level of education. Additional benefits may include medical insurance and a housing stipend (relocation assistance will be offered based on eligibility).

About Zoox

Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We’re looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.

Accommodations

If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to [email protected] or your assigned recruiter.

A Final Note:

You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.