Software/Electrical Engineering AR/VR Intern – Kohler Innovation Center

About Kohler

Kohler supplies quality kitchen and bath products internationally. The company strives to enhance the consumer experience through quality design, craftsmanship and innovation. Kohler’s Innovation Center at Research Park supports research and design efforts related to robotics, electro-mechanical systems, machining, and pneumatic and hydraulic functions.

The Kohler Innovation Center at Research Park focuses on areas of interest to Kohler including supply chain optimization strategies; investigating and adapting technology for the factory of the future; and developing a pipeline of engineering and data analytics talent for the company tapped from its student intern program.

About the Role

The intern/co-op/student will support the development of both Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) tools to enhance product development and training. The AR project centers on an interactive modeling tool that overlays color mapping on a physical plaster model or mold, indicating dimensional variance between CAD and physical models. This tool will enable precise real-time adjustments to CAD files, aimed at improving accuracy, reducing development time, and lowering the skill threshold for such tasks. 

The VR project involves creating a VR training application for Kohler associates, using Unity software to develop immersive, hands-on training modules on Meta Quest headsets. The intern will contribute to research, design, and technical support across both AR and VR initiatives. The role requires collaboration with a multi-disciplinary engineering team, including software, mechanical, and electrical engineers. 

Specific Responsibilities

• AR (Augmented Reality)
  • Develop and enhance understanding of AR technologies.
  • Program, test, and troubleshoot AR applications.
  • Support the integration of AR technology into physical models and systems to visualize dimensional accuracy.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate AR into broader product development processes.
• VR (Virtual Reality)
  • Develop and maintain VR training applications for associate training using Unity software.
  • Test VR applications on Meta Quest headsets, troubleshoot issues, and gather user feedback to improve usability.
  • Collaborate with training teams and Kohler associates to identify training needs and translate them into VR modules.
  • Research and integrate new VR functionalities as appropriate to enhance training engagement and effectiveness.
• Mechanical Engineering
  • Support the design and development of physical plaster models as needed.
  • Assist in troubleshooting mechanical elements within AR and VR setups with engineering guidance.
• Computer Engineering
  • Develop knowledge of software programming languages and software design principles.
  • Program and troubleshoot applications supporting both AR and VR projects.
  • Contribute to the integration of software programming across AR and VR systems.

Relationships and Contacts

• Supervisory Relationships
  • Reports to the Manager of the University of Illinois Research Park (UIRP).
• Organization Relationships
  • Collaborates with the Digital Transformation team for project guidance and AR/VR best practices.
  • Works with business stakeholders to gather requirements, provide updates, and receive feedback for AR/VR projects.
  • Coordinates with external hardware/software developers as necessary.

Educational and Experience Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a program for Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with Unity and/or Meta Quest headsets is preferred for VR project support.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office is required.
• Experience using computer vision or AI detection techniques to enhance AR overlays by enabling accurate object recognition is a plus.
• Experience with Magic Leap 2 and/or Apple Vision pro is a plus

Apply now on Kohler’s job site.