Research Engineering Intern

2024 Research/Engineering Intern – ML, Computer Vision (Outward, Inc.)

Location: San Jose, CA or San Francisco, CA

**Multiple positions available**

About Outward, Inc.

Outward, Inc. is based in San Jose, CA and is a wholly owned technology subsidiary of Williams Sonoma, Inc.

At Outward Inc., our vision is to 'lower the friction' in every aspect of the customer shopping journey for our Williams-Sonoma, Inc. brands. We achieve this by leveraging cutting-edge technology to create innovative and intuitive experiences, with top-notch product visualizations. We are at the forefront of product visualization, integrating 3D, AR/VR, and web technologies to redefine the shopping experience.

In addition, we are pioneering the use of generative AI to transform e-commerce. By harnessing the power of AI, we aim to revolutionize how products are presented and interacted with, enhancing consumer engagement and driving the future of online shopping. Our mission is to deepen consumer connections with the products that matter and deliver best-in-class experiences.

Summary:

We’re looking for talented research interns for our engineering team focusing on delivering new visual experiences.  The team works on problems in imaging, computer vision, graphics, and machine learning. Some areas of interest are:

• Deep Neural Networks for Vision: Apply advanced techniques in DNNs for tasks such as segmentation and detection to solve complex vision problems.
• Generative Algorithms: Work with generative models, including Stable Diffusion, to enhance visual content creation and realism.
• AI Integration and Automation: Support the integration of AI into production processes, streamline workflows, and transition tasks to AI-driven automation.
• Quality Control and Product Enhancement: Contribute to developing AI solutions that improve quality control and enhance product visuals.

We are looking for the following:

• You are currently enrolled in a graduate program in CS, EE, Applied Math or similar field
• You are on track to graduate with your Ph.D. or MSc degree between Fall/Winter 2024 and Spring/Summer 2025
• You have a minimum GPA of 3.5
• You have experience with scientific libraries such as NumPy, scikit-learn, image manipulation libraries like OpenCV, Machine learning frameworks like Tensorflow, PyTorch
• You have skills in design and implementation of algorithms
• You have strong software engineering skills in Python or C++
• You have strong communication skills

Desired Skills (Nice-to-have):

• Skills in processing and cleaning data.
• Experience with maintaining PostgreSQL databases and image content
• Working experience on cloud infrastructure

Internship duration (start & end date):

• This is a five to six month internship starting in October 2024, with the opportunity to work 20-40 hours a week.
• Paid internship. Non-Exempt. Hourly

We believe in People First

We firmly believe that working in a culture focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion spurs innovation, creates healthy and high-performing teams, and delivers superior customer experiences. Our DEI initiatives prompt associate participation and engagement, aligning with our core vision to reflect the communities where we do business and put people first.

Outward, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Outward, Inc. will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the California Fair Employment Act (AB 1008), or other applicable state or local laws and ordinances.

The expected starting pay range for this position is $50-$60 hourly. Applicable pay ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. 

This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.

About Us

Founded in 1956, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is the premier specialty retailer of high-quality products for the kitchen and home in the United States. Our family of brands are Williams Sonoma, Williams Sonoma Home, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn teen, pottery barn kids, Rejuvenation, Mark & Graham, west elm, or Outward. These brands are among the best known and most respected in the industry. We offer beautifully-designed, stylish and functional products for every area of the home, including the kitchen, living room, bedroom, home office, closet, laundry room and even outdoor spaces. We've seen some big changes since our first brick-and-mortar store opened more than half of a century ago. What hasn't changed is our passion for high-quality products, functional design, outstanding customer service, and enhancing the lives of our customers and the communities where we operate. Today, we're a multi-brand, multi-channel, global enterprise supported by state-of-the-art technology and some of the most talented teams in retailing - and we're always looking for new energy and ideas.