Systems Engineering Intern

Tesla Powertrain Controls InternshipThis position is expected to start January or February 2027 and continue through Winter/Spring term (ending approximately May 2027) or continuing into Summer 2027 if available and there is an opportunity to do so. We ask for a minimum of 12 weeks, full-time (40 hours/week) and on-site, for most internships. Our internship program is for students who are actively enrolled in an academic program. Recent graduates seeking employment after graduation and not returning to school should apply for full-time positions, not internships.International Students: If your work authorization is through CPT, please consult your school on your ability to work 40 hours per week before applying. You must be able to work 40 hours per week on-site. Many students will be limited to part-time during the academic year.The Tesla Powertrain Controls team works on design and implementation of control algorithms and software that ensures seamless torque delivery to every Tesla vehicle. The control algorithms at Tesla are strongly physics oriented, so the role requires an individual that can apply first-principles analysis and advanced control techniques for the design and implementation of novel, industry-leading torque path and powertrain control systems (specifically, controlling motors and brakes, while respecting and enforcing power limitations, to meet various longitudinal control and comfort goals). This role will also require working cross-functionally with various groups including Chassis Hardware, Vehicle Dynamics and Modeling, Firmware, Systems Integration, and Self Driving teams. Some well-known systems our team has developed and shipped include One Pedal Driving, Acceleration pedal response, Full Self Driving (FSD) longitudinal controls, Regen Backfill, and Off-road Trail Assist, as well as under-the-hood algorithms including torque split, regen blending, and driveline anti-knock algorithms to efficiently and comfortably allocate driver commands to the motors.ResponsibilitiesDevelop control-oriented models of powertrain systems for analysis and estimationWork with Vehicle Dynamics Engineers to ensure sensing, actuation, and algorithm designs can deliver the desired vehicle dynamics attributesDevelop and implement control algorithms to maximize system capability and flexibilityDevelop and implement estimation and monitoring algorithms to maximize system safety and reliabilityWork with Firmware/Integration Engineers to test, debug, and calibrate the algorithms in simulation and in carEnsure stability and performance of the algorithms using software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tools, in the vehicle at proving grounds and in the customer fleetBuild tools for visualization, simulation, etc. to make the controls development process smoother and more robustRequirementsCurrently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or similar with a graduation date between May 2027 – May 2028Background in first principles linear systems analysis, state-estimation, and control designBasic understanding of the physics of electric drivetrains, and chassis actuators like brakes, steering, suspensions, etc.Good proficiency with engineering development tools like Matlab/Simulink/PythonBasic proficiency with software development in C/C++Real world experience with vehicle dynamics performance characteristics, preferredCompensation & BenefitsAs a full-time Tesla Intern, you will be eligible for:Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deductionFamily-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefitsDental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans. Both have an option with a $0 payroll contributionCompany Paid (Health Savings Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Medical Plan with HSAHealthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefitsCompany Paid Basic Life, AD&D, and short-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)Employee Assistance ProgramSick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions), and Paid HolidaysBack-up childcare and parenting support resourcesVoluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insuranceCommuter benefitsEmployee discounts and perks programExpected Compensation $50.06 - $58.89 + benefitsPay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.