Internship, Physics Engine Development Engineer, Optimus (Winter/Spring 2027)

About the role

Internship, Physics Engine Development Engineer, Optimus (Winter/Spring 2027) | Tesla (Tesla SI)

Location: Palo Alto, California | Req ID: 257048 | Job Type: Intern/Apprentice

What to Expect

Consider before submitting an application

This position is expected to start January 2027 and continue through 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.

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.

What You'll Do

• Develop physics-based high-fidelity simulation modules for robotics application, ensuring accurate and reliable modelling of complex systems
• Optimize simulation performance to achieve high throughput while preserving simulation fidelity
• Collaborate with training and hardware design team to minimize sim-to-real gap from all angles and perspectives

What You'll Bring

• Currently pursuing a Degree in Physics, Mathematics, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a graduation date between 2026 - 2027
• Extensive experience in robotics physics engine development, supported by first-author publications or impactful projects
• Deep understanding of algorithm complexity and data structures
• Deep understanding of control theory
• Familiar with compiler principles and differentiable simulations
• Exceptional skills in C++, Python, CUDA, and GPU programming
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach to problem-solving

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
• Earned Wage Access: Real-time pay access paid daily, subject to eligibility and schedule (applicable for below Sr. Managers levels)

Expected Compensation$20.00 - $55.00 + 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.