Internship, Software Validation Engineer, Vehicle Firmware (Fall 2026)

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Internship, Software Validation Engineer, Vehicle Firmware (Fall 2026)

| Job Category | Vehicle Software | | Location | PALO ALTO, California | | Req. ID | 270070 | | Job Type | Intern/Apprentice |

What to Expect

Consider before submitting an application:

This position is expected to start August or September 2026 and continue through fall term (ending approximately December 2026) or continuing into Winter/Spring 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.

Internship Program at Tesla

The Internship Recruiting Team is driven by the passion to recognize and develop emerging talent. Our year-round program places the best students in positions where they will grow technically, professionally, and personally through their experience working closely with their Manager, Mentor, and team. We are dedicated to providing an experience that allows the intern to experience life at Tesla by including them in projects that are critical to their team’s success.

About the Team

The Systems Validation team is responsible for validating all software and system requirements prior to any new software release or new product introduction. This includes inventing and building state of the art automated test infrastructure to increase the efficiency and precision of testing used throughout the development and validation cycle.

The team is looking for highly motivated interns to support Drive Systems, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Crash Safety, Thermal Management, HVAC, Body Controls, Lighting, Access Controls, Battery Management, Charging, Power Conversion, High and Low Voltage Power Distribution, Autonomy and Core Test Infrastructure.

The ideal candidate is strong in system-level troubleshooting, automation tools, and hardware and software design, with a passion for mechatronics and seamless user experiences.

Interns will directly impact the continuous development of software for existing and new vehicle programs by contributing to the validation strategy and building new automated test infrastructure.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and execute comprehensive system-level validation plans for the continuous improvement of existing products and the launch of new products
• Specify, design, develop and integrate test automation frameworks, tools and sub-system test-setups using Python, C++ and Rust
• Collaborate directly with firmware, hardware and controls engineers to identify, diagnose, and resolve issues early in the development cycle
• Analyze test results, generate reports, and provide recommendations for product improvements
• Investigate real-world field issues, identify root causes, and work with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions
• Continuously look for ways to improve the safety, performance, and customer satisfaction with Tesla products
• Develop prototype test setups to integrate new subsystems with simulated or actual vehicle components, utilizing software driven test automation

What You’ll Bring

• Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field of study with a graduation date between December 2026 – December 2027
• Strong fundamentals in electrical, mechanical, controls and systems engineering concepts
• Hands on experience debugging complex systems involving networked microprocessors and software-controlled electrical and electromechanical sensors and actuators
• Experience with test automation, object-oriented software design (Python, C++, Rust), and debugging tools
• Experience with HIL/SIL environments, test benches, and simulation-based validation
• Experience with vehicle communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet) and diagnostic tools
• Experience analyzing and parsing data to develop technical insights
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with cross-functional teams

Compensation and Benefits

Benefits

• As a full-time Tesla Intern, you will be eligible for:

• Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction

• Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits

• Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans. Both have an option with a $0 payroll contribution

• Company Paid (Health Savings Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Medical Plan with HSA

• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

• 401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits

• Company Paid Basic Life, AD&D, and short-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)

• Employee Assistance Program

• Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions), and Paid Holidays

• Back-up childcare and parenting support resources

• Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance

• Commuter benefits

• Employee discounts and perks program

• Expected Compensation

• $42.07 - $58.89 + benefits

Pay 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.

Tesla is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any factor, including veteran status and disability status, protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Tesla is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

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