Job Description

Research Intern, Computer Vision & Deep Learning (Summer 2024)

About Skydio: Pioneering Autonomous Flight

Skydio stands as the undisputed leader in US drone technology and the global vanguard of autonomous flight, the foundational technology driving the future of drones and aerial mobility. Our pioneering team unites profound expertise in artificial intelligence, unparalleled hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and an unwavering customer obsession. We are dedicated to democratizing access to powerful drone technology, empowering a vast and diverse user base, from critical infrastructure inspectors and courageous first responders to soldiers in dynamic battlefield scenarios and beyond.

About the Role: Architecting the Brains of Autonomous Drones

At the very heart of Skydio’s revolutionary systems lie our sophisticated computer vision algorithms, enabling our drones to perceive, understand, and navigate the complex world around them. As a Research Intern with our world-class Computer Vision and Deep Learning team, you will dive deep into this core, architecting and implementing the very algorithms that power every Skydio drone. You will be paired with seasoned researchers and engineers who have consistently pushed the boundaries of the state of the art in both academia and industry. This isn’t just an observation role; you will assume direct ownership of a high-impact project, meaningfully advancing the capabilities of our team and products, and seeing your innovations take flight.

If you possess a robust foundation in mathematics, theoretical computer science, and software development, and are driven by the ambition to directly contribute to the next generation of autonomy algorithms – pushing them from conceptualization into real-world, market-defining products – we eagerly invite you to connect with us.

How You’ll Make An Impact: Pioneer the Edge of Autonomy

• Accelerate Groundbreaking Innovation: Enable rapid research and development of intelligent systems, equipping them with advanced autonomous capabilities that transcend anything currently existing in the world.
• Explore and Validate Frontiers: Meticulously research, prototype, and comprehensively assess the feasibility of novel algorithmic approaches that redefine what’s possible.
• Unleash User Magic: Imagine, conceptualize, and then meticulously implement transformative new features that unlock extraordinary capabilities and deliver a sense of magic for our diverse users.
• Elevate Performance Standards: Rigorously characterize and quantify the performance of critical components across our entire software and hardware stack, ensuring unparalleled reliability and efficiency.

What Makes You a Strong Fit: Qualities of a Visionary Intern

• Programming Prowess: Exceptional proficiency in C++ and/or Python, coupled with hands-on experience in PyTorch or similar deep learning frameworks.
• Passionate Explorer: Demonstrated enthusiasm and practical experience in one or more of the following cutting-edge domains: Computer Vision, Deep Learning, Motion Planning, Dynamics and Controls, 3D Graphics, Distributed Systems, or advanced Tools/Infrastructure development.
• Engineering Excellence: A solid foundation in software engineering principles, with an unwavering commitment to crafting clean, robust, and impeccably well-architected code.
• Collaborative Spirit: The agility and aptitude to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced, and highly collaborative small team environment, where ideas flourish and collective problem-solving is paramount.

Compensation & Benefits

Skydio offers highly competitive compensation for our Summer Research Interns, reflecting your expertise and potential. The hourly base salary range for this impactful position is $47/hr for Undergraduate students and $53/hr for Graduate students. Please note that exact compensation will be tailored based on a variety of factors, including your specific skill level, demonstrated proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and relevant experience. While this is an internship role, Skydio full-time employees are eligible to enroll in our comprehensive benefit plans and take advantage of a variety of incentives and stipends, reflecting our commitment to employee well-being. For certain positions, pay may also be adjusted based on the individual’s regional location.

Our Culture: Innovation Through Diversity

At Skydio, we firmly believe that diversity is the driving force behind true innovation. We have meticulously cultivated a multidisciplinary environment that champions and embraces the immense power of diverse perspectives, understanding that they are essential to creating elegant, groundbreaking solutions for the most complex challenges. We are deeply committed to continuously growing our network of talented people, fostering impactful programs, and providing robust resources to nurture a truly inclusive culture where every voice is heard and valued.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws.

E-Verify

For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. proudly uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/.