Hardware Engineer

Proto-Experiments runs ambitious projects. Our current focus is ML-driven crystal growth systems that close the loop between sensors ML-driven control and physical hardware. Were looking for a tinkerer whose core strengths are sensors microcontroller programming and breadboard-level fabrication. A lot of this role is figuring out how to prototype and build. Materials science or ML background is a plus but not required. Hiring ASAP.

Crystal growth is the immediate project but Proto-Experiments has other unusual builds in the pipeline. If it is a good fit there is real opportunity to keep working together on what comes next.

What youll do

• Build the sensing side of our growth rigs: thermocouples optical sensors cameras pressure sensors - selecting them wiring them cleanly and getting clean signals out of noisy environments.

• Program the microcontrollers running the rigs: sensor sampling control loops motor sequencing and host comms.

• Breadboard and prototype-level fabrication: protoboards harnesses simple carrier boards plus 3D-printed brackets and basic mechanical scaffolding.

• Power side: heater control motor drives PID loops MOSFETs isolation grounding.

• Take rigs from works on the bench to runs reliably for a 72-hour growth and debug across the stack when they dont.

Were looking for

• A natural tinkerer - someone who learns quickly stays deeply curious works extremely hard and brings creativity to the bench.

• Strong sensor integration experience

• Solid microcontroller programming

• Real breadboard and prototype-fab skills

• Light mechanical fab: basic CAD 3D printing

You dont need every one of these. We care more about mindset and attitude.

Logistics

• Contract: Hours flexible. Hiring ASAP. Potential to convert to full-time.

• On-site in Lockhart TX.

• To apply: email

Required Experience:

IC