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 jack@earthship.city