Wearables Prototype Engineer Intern (Hardware + Software)

Workstream is a mission-driven company building the all-in-one HR, payroll, and hiring platform for managing the hourly workforce. There are 2.7 billion hourly workers, making up 80% of the global workforce, but this market has been heavily underserved by technology and deserves better. Workstream has been purpose-built for the hourly workforce from day one so that these businesses and their employees can thrive.

Our customers include leading brands from multiple sectors, including Burger King, Carl's Jr./Hardee's, IHOP, KFC, and Culvers. We are a high growth series B company and quickly expanding our product portfolio to deliver on our vision. We are backed by legendary VCs and industry experts like Founders Fund, BOND, and Coatue.

Grow With Us

We are looking for a curious, hands-on Wearables Prototype Engineer Intern to help design, build, and test next-generation wearable device concepts that integrate with Workstream’s platform.

In this role, you will work closely with experienced engineers and product teams to rapidly prototype wearable solutions—from early concepts to functional demos. You will gain exposure to both hardware and software development while contributing to real-world projects that explore how wearable technology can improve productivity and communication for the hourly workforce.

This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys building, experimenting, and learning by doing in a fast-paced startup environment.

Day in the Life

• Assist in designing and building wearable hardware prototypes using off-the-shelf components
• Support development of embedded software/firmware for wearable devices (e.g., sensor data collection, Bluetooth communication)
• Help integrate wearable prototypes with mobile or web applications
• Participate in testing, debugging, and iteration of both hardware and software components
• Collaborate with engineers and product teams to explore use cases and improve user experience
• Research new components, sensors, and technologies for wearable applications
• Document prototypes, experiments, and findings

Who You Are

• Currently pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
• Hands-on experience with hardware or embedded systems projects (class, personal, or research)
• Familiarity with programming in C/C++, Python, or similar languages
• Basic understanding of microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi)
• Interest in wearable technology, IoT, or hardware/software integration
• Strong curiosity, willingness to learn, and bias toward building
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Bonus Points

• Experience with personal or academic projects involving wearables or IoT devices
• Familiarity with Bluetooth (BLE) or other wireless communication protocols
• Exposure to circuit design, PCB development, or hardware debugging
• Experience with mobile app development (iOS/Android) or API integrations
• Experience with rapid prototyping tools (3D printing, CAD, etc.)

What We Offer

• A mission-driven and value-based company dedicated to empower deskless workers and local businesses
• An early employee opportunity at a Series B hyper-growth startup; work with the founding team and industry veterans to accelerate your career
• In office amenities and stocked kitchen

Salary Range

In compliance with the California Pay Transparency Law, the hourly range for this role is between $35/hr to $50/hr in Menlo Park. When determining a candidate’s compensation, we consider a number of factors including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.

Know More About Workstream

• https://www.workstream.us/blog/funding-series-b
• https://techcrunch.com/2021/08/26/workstreams-text-based-recruitment-tool-gets-a-48m-bet-from-bond-and-beyond/
• https://techbuzz.news/buzzworthy-august-27-2021/

Additional Information 

Workstream provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. 

We are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals.