Apprentice - Embedded Hardware, Power & Safety

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 Apprentice Engineer role is for high-potential early-career hardware engineers who want to build industrial-grade systems. You won't be confined to simulations; you will be dealing with real hardware, real power, and real testing from Day 1. Under the mentorship of Senior Engineers, you will own specific circuit modules, build test infrastructure, and learn the rigorous processes of reliable hardware design.

Key Responsibilities

Module Design & Prototyping:

• Design simple, 2-to-4 layer PCBs (e.g., breakout boards, simple power regulators) using ECAD software.
• Assemble prototype circuits using soldering irons, hot air rework stations, and breadboards.
• Build custom wire harnesses for robot prototypes, ensuring proper crimping and routing.

Testing, Validation & HIL:

• Assist in the setup and execution of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) tests, writing basic test cases to validate firmware behavior against simulated hardware.
• Execute rigorous testing protocols on battery packs, inverters, and custom PCBs.
• Use electronic loads to stress-test power delivery networks and document thermal performance using thermal cameras.
• Assist in diagnosing electrical faults on the physical robot during field trials.

Hardware Defined Safety:

• Prototype and test physical hardware safety interlocks. Wire physical E-stop buttons, limit switches, and thermal sensor fault lines into the main Power Distribution Board (PDB), ensuring that triggered error signals successfully break the power circuit without software intervention.

Requirements

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 0-2 years of experience (strong internship or university project portfolio demonstrating hardware creation is required).
• Basic proficiency in at least one PCB design tool (KiCad, Eagle, or Altium).
• Solid grasp of fundamental electronics (Ohm's law, voltage dividers, RC filters, basic transistor logic).
• Exceptional hands-on skills: comfortable soldering, crimping, and using power tools.
• Familiarity with the concepts of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing.
• Demonstrated ability to build complex electromechanical systems (e.g., Solar Car, FSAE, combat robots).

Preferred Experiences

• Experience with high-voltage or high-current hobby projects.
• Basic Python or C skills for writing automation scripts.

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.

Benefits

• 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.