Shinkei Systems

Robots for longer-lasting, better-tasting fish at scale.

Mechanical Engineering Intern / Associate Engineer

Location
Los Angeles, CA, US
Job Type
Internship
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About the role

Job Title: Summer Intern – Mechanical Engineering and R&D

Location: El Segundo, CA
Type: Internship (Summer 2025)

**About Us
**Shinkei is a pioneering robotics startup based in El Segundo, California. We are dedicated to revolutionizing the seafood industry by delivering higher quality, better tasting, and longer-lasting fish through innovative robotics solutions. Our technology integrates computer vision and advanced mechanisms to assist fishermen in fish processing, enhancing efficiency and product quality.

**Job Overview
**We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Mechanical Engineering Intern to join our team for the summer of 2025. This role offers hands-on experience in the development, prototyping, and testing of robotic systems deployed in a marine environment and tailored for the seafood industry. You’ll work closely with our core team of engineers, contributing to meaningful projects that blend mechanical engineering with real-world problem-solving.

Responsibilities

  • Design, prototype and test mechanical components for robotic systems.
  • Conduct research to identify innovative solutions for challenges in seafood automation.
  • Own an entire project and collaborate with the wider engineering team to assemble, troubleshoot, test and validate as needed.
  • Support the development of experimental setups for testing and validation of robotic systems.
  • Participate in team brainstorming sessions and provide creative input for design challenges.
  • Deliver documented design iterations, experimental results, and findings in a clear and organized manner.

Qualifications

  • Interest in machine design
  • Pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related.
  • Experience designing mechanical components in CAD
  • Experience with conventional machining and rapid prototyping
  • Exposure to common machine elements such as bearings, gears, belt/cable, lead screws)
  • Strong problem-solving skills and an ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Prior experience with robotics, hands on fabrication, food equipment, or marine tech/fisheries is a bonus.

What We Offer

  • Hands-on experience with cutting-edge novel robotics projects.
  • Mentorship from experienced engineers.
  • A high-intensity, collaborative and fun startup culture.
  • An opportunity to harness technology to positively impact food systems.
  • This role is open to new grads as an Associate Engineer role where you have the potential opportunity to earn a full-time position at the end of your internship.

**How to Apply
**Please send your resume, and mechanical design portfolio through our application portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Join us this summer and help us harness technology to democratize artisanal food!

About Shinkei Systems

Shinkei Systems (YC W22) builds robotics to produce Michelin-grade fish at commodity costs.

Shinkei Systems
Founded:2021
Batch:W22
Team Size:28
Status:
Active
Location:El Segundo, CA
Founders
Saif Khawaja
Saif Khawaja
Founder