TL;DR

R&D Intern (AI): Designing and running sensor characterization experiments that span hardware test setups, controlled measurements, and data collection across multiple candidate sensors with an accent on extracting key performance parameters and uncertainties. Focus on translating findings into clear recommendations for sensor and navigation roadmaps, including cost and supply-chain considerations where relevant.

Location: Hybrid with recurring on-site work in Palo Alto, CA.

Salary: $56K – $84K

Company

SandboxAQ is a high-growth company delivering AI solutions that address some of the world's greatest challenges, focusing on Large Quantitative Models (LQMs) to power advances across various sectors.

What you will do

  • Conduct hands-on characterization measurements of candidate sensors to capture key performance parameters.
  • Analyze experimental data rigorously using statistical and signal-processing techniques to quantify sensor performance and uncertainty.
  • Integrate characterized sensor parameters into navigation simulations to assess their impact on overall system performance and accuracy.
  • Develop comparative performance models and visualizations that clearly highlight trade-offs between different sensor options.
  • Produce a comprehensive sensor performance trade report that ties sensor-level metrics to system-level navigation outcomes.
  • Collaborate closely with the hardware, data, and navigation teams and present findings to product leadership.

Requirements

  • Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, an undergraduate or graduate program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field.
  • Hands-on experience working with physical sensors, including data collection, basic calibration, and noise/performance characterization.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in quantitative data analysis using tools such as Python, MATLAB, or similar, including statistical analysis and visualization of experimental results.
  • Strong writing and communication skills, with prior experience writing or presenting technical reports or project deliverables.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Nice to have

  • Experience designing and executing sensor test campaigns, including test planning, instrumentation, and experimental design.
  • Prior internships, co-ops, or lab experience in an R&D, hardware, or systems engineering setting.

Culture & Benefits

  • Committed to competitive, equitable, and transparent compensation, with continuous benchmarking to premium markets.
  • Environment encourages creativity, collaboration, and impact with investment in people.
  • Multidisciplinary environment provides ample opportunity for continuous growth.
  • Fostering a culture of belonging and respect, where diverse perspectives are actively sought and valued.