Embedded Software Intern – Robotics Firmware

Job Description

Internship, Embedded Software Engineer, Optimus (Fall 2026) | Tesla

The Tone:
This is an internship at Tesla, located on-site, expected to start August or September 2026. Tesla is dedicated to building humanoid robots at scale to automate repetitive and boring tasks. This role is crucial for developing embedded platform drivers and application layer code for various robotics applications on the cutting-edge Optimus platform. The robotics firmware team is small, passionate, and fast-moving, comprised of deeply knowledgeable engineers focused on building robust and reliable embedded systems.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Full-time
• Location: On-site
• Pay: $20–$60 yearly
• Team: Robotics firmware team
• Mission: Develop scalable embedded platform drivers and application-level modules to achieve specific functions on Optimus subsystems.
• Tech Stack: C/C++, Python (plus), ADC, PWM, SPI, I2C, Ethernet, CAN, RTOS

What You’ll Actually Do
• Development: Develop scalable real-time embedded software that implements sensing, control, and safety management of the Tesla Bot actuators.
• Bring up: Bring up new sensors, communication networks, and new PCBAs for various robotic applications.
• Develop: Develop automated tests to ensure high-quality software releases and accurate functionality.
• Involve: Be involved in the full life cycle of firmware development from concept through integration, test, and release as the robot fleet grows.
• Work: Work closely with the hardware and controls team to specify hardware actuation, sensing requirements, and influence electronics designs.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Student currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field of study, with a graduation date between December 2026 – December 2027.
• Experience: Experience with reading electrical schematics and understanding circuit behavior. Experience working with sensors and digital signal processing. Experience working with the physical and data link layers of Ethernet and/or other communication protocols. Experience working with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS).
• Skills: Proficiency in C/C++. Knowledge of microcontroller peripherals such as ADC, PWM, SPI, I2C, Ethernet, and CAN.
• Bonus: Familiarity with Python.