Internship, Robotics Software Engineer, C++ Generalist, Optimus (Winter/Spring 2026)

Consider before submitting an application:

This position is expected to start around January 2026 and continue through the Winter/Spring term (approximately April 2026) or into Summer 2026 if available and there is an opportunity to do so. We ask for a minimum of 12 weeks, full-time 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.

As a Software Engineer within our robotics teams, you will contribute to one of the most advanced Robotics/AI Platforms in the world.

In this role you will work across multiple functions to ensure seamless integration between various subsystems of the robots including the main computer, sensors, motor controllers, telemetry systems, etc. to enable functionality on existing and new robotics platforms. Your work can cover everything from tuning the robots locomotion stack to building the infrastructure that will scale to the entire robot fleet. You will help implement innovative features that leverage the power of Tesla AI. You will define and maintain content and configurations that support smooth functionality across variations of the robot platform.

• Write, debug, and maintain robust C/C++ software for the Humanoid robot software stack
• Bring up software and hardware for new robotics platforms
• Define requirements for specific functionality and coordinate with relevant subsystem owners, manufacturing, user interface and other teams
• Develop and iterate on new functionality and test it through simulation and on-hardware execution
• Leverage functionality from Tesla's vehicles and autonomy systems to the benefit of robotics platform

• Practical experience programming in C/C++ software, including modern C/C++ (C++14/17/20), multithreading, and Python
• Experience with embedded systems software design concepts
• Experience with communication standards such as CAN, ethercat and ethernet
• Proficient developing software on a Linux host, for embedded Linux targets (cross-compilation, etc.) a plus
• Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Physics, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics or related fields with a graduation date between 2026-2027

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

• Aetna PPO and HSA plans > 2 medical 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
• Employee Assistance Program
• Sick time after 90 days of employment 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

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.