Volunteer Position: Hardware Integration Engineer

Organization: LoopRoots Foundation (in partnership with LoopTroop Inc.)

Location: Remote / Hybrid (collaboration via video and shared design platforms)

Commitment: 10–15 hours per week (Volunteer – MVP Phase)

About the Role

LoopRoots Foundation is seeking a Hardware Integration Engineer to assist with the development and testing of the LoopTroop in-car vending system, which allows riders to purchase snacks and essentials directly from vehicles.

This role focuses on building, testing, and refining hardware prototypes, including sensors, vending mechanisms, and connectivity systems that link the vending unit to the LoopTroop mobile app and LoopLocker hubs.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the product and software teams to design and prototype the in-car vending machine hardware.
• Assist in selecting and testing sensors, microcontrollers, and vending components.
• Support hardware-software integration with the app (QR code/PIN unlocking, payment trigger).
• Help design safe, compact layouts suitable for vehicle installation.
• Participate in testing cycles for power, connectivity, and inventory sensors.
• Provide documentation for the final MVP hardware build.

Ideal Skills

• Experience with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or similar microcontrollers.
• Knowledge of IoT (Internet of Things) systems and hardware integration.
• Familiarity with electrical prototyping, sensor configuration, and data transmission (Bluetooth, WiFi).
• Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills.
• Background in mechanical or electrical engineering preferred but not required.

What You’ll Gain

• Real-world hardware engineering experience in a social impact tech startup.
• Portfolio and resume credit for an innovative smart vending + mobility system.
• Potential for a paid contract role after MVP launch.

To Apply

Please send your resume, LinkedIn, or portfolio link to:

[email protected]

Subject: “Hardware Integration Engineer – In-Car Vending System”