Forward Deployed Engineer Intern

Job Description

Forward Deployed Engineer Intern

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Forward Deployed Engineer Intern to join our team, working directly on real-world challenges in the development of autonomous surface vessels (ASVs). This unique internship offers a blend of software development, field deployment, and hands-on problem-solving, ensuring your contributions have a direct impact on mission success.

As an intern, you will gain invaluable experience in software development, testing, and integration, collaborating closely with experienced engineers on complex problems spanning autonomy, sensor fusion, and real-time processing. This role is perfectly suited for students passionate about being at the forefront of maritime autonomy. You will receive dedicated support and mentorship from seasoned Forward Deployed Engineers throughout your internship.

This internship is ideal for students pursuing degrees in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or related technical fields.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Software Development & Implementation: Design, implement, and test critical software components for autonomous systems, including navigation algorithms, sensor integration, and communication protocols.
• Algorithm Optimization: Collaborate with the team to develop and optimize algorithms for real-time decision-making, path planning, and object detection.
• Testing & Validation: Assist in the development of comprehensive testing frameworks and actively participate in Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing to rigorously validate software performance in both simulated and real-world environments.
• Field Troubleshooting: Proactively troubleshoot and resolve software, hardware, and networking issues encountered during deployments in real-world settings.
• Technical Documentation: Contribute to the creation of essential technical documentation, including design specifications, user manuals, and detailed test plans.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with diverse cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers, to ensure the seamless integration of software with hardware components.

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Qualifications:

• Academic Enrollment: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• Programming Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in one or more of the following programming languages: Python, C++, Typescript, Javascript, or Rust.
• Robotics Fundamentals: Basic understanding of robotics principles, autonomous systems, and sensor technologies.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Work Ethic: Ability to excel both independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced environment.
• Field Readiness: Willingness to travel and spend time in the field, actively testing and improving Autonomous Surface Vessel (ASV) systems in real-world maritime settings.

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Physical Demands:

• Desk Work: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Office Mobility: Occasional standing and walking within the office environment.
• Fine Motor Skills: Manual dexterity required to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Vision: Visual acuity necessary to read screens, documents, and reports.
• Occasional Movement: Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies.
• Lifting: Occasional lifting and carrying of items up to 20 pounds (e.g., office supplies, packages).

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Special Requirement:

This role requires access to export-controlled information or items that mandate “U.S. Person” status. As defined by U.S. law, individuals who are any one of the following are considered to be a “U.S. Person”: (1) U.S. citizens, (2) legal permanent residents (a.k.a. green card holders), and (3) certain protected classes of asylees and refugees, as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).