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. We're 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 you'll 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 don't. **We're 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 don't 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