Software Co-op/Intern, Robotics
South Boston, MA United Staes
$20-25 hourly
ABOUT LUMINOUS
Luminous Robotics, Inc. is solving one of the defining infrastructure problems of this decade: decarbonization and AI data center growth are forcing the world to scale energy infrastructure faster than at any point in history. Based in Boston, we address this through flexible, physical AI robot fleets that build and operate solar energy infrastructure. In the past 12 months, we've developed three generations of LUMI robots and brought online clean energy for thousands of U.S. homes. We're now scaling into large-scale commercial fleet deployments globally
THE ROLE
We're looking for a Robotics Intern/Co-op to help build the systems that let LUMI robots know where they are, where they're going, and what to do next. You'll work directly on SLAM, navigation, and behaviors. It’s the core stack that gets our robots safely and reliably through real, uneven, outdoor solar sites. This is a hands-on seat at the table, not a shadowing role: your code will run on real robots, at real construction sites, alongside engineers who'll expect you to own your piece of the stack.
RESPONSIBLITIES
Contribute to core parts of the LUMI robotics stack, with a focus on SLAM, navigation/mapping, and robot behaviors
Design, implement, and test localization, mapping, and path-planning algorithms suited to outdoor, GPS-degraded solar construction environments
Build and refine the behavior logic (state machines, task sequencing) that governs how LUMI robots execute field tasks
Write production code following rigorous coding practices; participate in code reviews, documentation, and cross-functional engineering meetings
Analyze sensor data (LiDAR, camera, IMU, GPS) and help build visualization or debugging tools
Work directly with the Deployment Engineering team to turn field-observed issues into robust fixes
QUALIFICATIONS
Current graduate student in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or a related field
Solid understanding of SLAM, localization, mapping, and/or path-planning fundamentals
Hands-on experience with C++ and/or Python, and exposure to ROS/ROS2
Familiarity with AI coding assistants such as Claude Code or OpenAI's developer tools, and comfort using them to accelerate development
Demonstrated interest in robotics, renewable energy, or clean tech
Git, Agile methods, Jira, or equivalent
Excellent communication and organizational skills
Ability to adapt in a fast-paced startup environment and willing to roll up sleeves, no matter the task
Team-oriented and excited about real-world deployment challenges
Bonus: experience with Docker, cloud infrastructure, sensor fusion, or off-road/outdoor robotics
CULTURE FIT
At Luminous, we value grit, creativity, and humility. The ideal candidate is hands-on, proactive, and excited to contribute in a fast-moving environment. We look for individuals who are eager to learn, unafraid to take ownership, and passionate about helping accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.
COMPENSATION & PERKS
Exposure to a high-growth startup environment.
Opportunity for meaningful contributions and tangible results.
Real ownership of production code that ships to deployed robots
Mentorship from founders and senior team members.
Hands-on experience with cutting-edge robotic systems.
Access to team off-sites, workshops, and events.

