Hardware Engineering Intern

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Type: Full-time Internship (Flexible hours & days based on availability, 40 hours/week)

Compensation: $4,000 / month + daily lunch credit

About Truffle We're building Truffle-1, a compact, efficient AI inference computer designed to run open-source models locally and portably. This is an early-stage hardware development in a garage startup setting. The internship is hands-on, fast-paced, and high-impact. You'll work directly on prototyping, assembly, and iteration for a product that's pushing the boundaries of hardware.

Role Overview As a Hardware Engineering Intern, you'll contribute to the physical build and refinement of Truffle prototypes. This is a maker-oriented role focused on turning designs into functional hardware. Expect a mix of manual assembly, testing, and problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform hand soldering of components, PCBs, and connectors.
• Assemble mechanical parts using screws, fasteners, enclosures.
• Use power tools for fabrication, modification, and fitting of custom parts.
• Assist with wiring, cable management, and integration of electronics (power supplies, heatsinks, fans, USBC, WiFi/BLE modules).
• Conduct basic functional testing, troubleshooting, and iteration on prototypes (e.g., thermal checks, power draw measurements, connectivity verification).
• Help organize and maintain the workspace, inventory components, and document build processes.
• Collaborate closely with the team on design feedback and rapid prototyping cycles.

Requirements

• Current student or recent grad in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• Prior project experience (personal builds, robotics, makerspace work).
• Comfortable using power tools safely in a workshop environment.
• Basic understanding of electronics/hardware (circuits, components, assembly best practices).
• Detail-oriented, reliable, and able to follow instructions while troubleshooting independently.
• Enthusiasm for hardware startups, AI compute, and building things from the ground up.
• Commitment to safety: Strict adherence to safe practices when handling tools, electronics, power supplies, and prototypes; proactive about identifying and mitigating risks in the workspace.

Nice-to-Haves

• Hands-on experience with soldering (we'll provide guidance if needed).
• Experience with 3D printing (SLA), CAD (SolidWorks), or PCB assembly.
• Familiarity with embedded systems, NVIDIA Jetson, or AI hardware.

What We Offer

• Real ownership: You'll ship actual hardware components for a product people are excited about.
• Flexible schedule around classes.
• Monthly stipend + daily lunch credit ($30 / day worked).
• Potential for full-time role based on fit and contributions.
• Garage startup perks: snacks, tools, and the thrill of early-stage building.

*NOTE: Looking to fill this position immediately. Flexible schedule around classes.