Internship, Test Engineer, Self-Driving (Winter/Spring 2027)

About the role

Internship, Test Engineer, Self-Driving (Winter/Spring 2027) | Tesla (Tesla SI)

Location: Fremont, California | Req ID: 282596 | Job Type: Intern/Apprentice

What to Expect

Rapid Full-Self-Driving (FSD) development relies heavily on our coordinated ability to test its progress across real-world driving scenarios including the most extreme edge cases. Vehicle-level tests enable the identification of critical safety & performance issues, ultimately opening the door for optimized design iterations and an enhanced driver/passenger experience altogether — this Test Engineer, Self-Driving internship position will play a role in actualizing this reality. With the productionization of Robotaxi just around the corner, there has never been a more pivotal time to join this team.

Consider before submitting an application

This position is expected to start around January 2027 and continue through the entire Spring term (ending approximately May 2027 or later, if available). 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.

What You'll Do

• Generate new test strategies to evaluate Full Self Driving
• Perform controlled vehicle testing across proving grounds using precision instrumentation, robotic platforms, and other test equipment
• Develop test fixtures and software tooling for efficient data collection, analysis, and reporting
• Use in-house simulation infrastructure to expand test coverage
• Analyze issues found during testing, partnering closely with developers on the Tesla SI and Vehicle Firmware teams to formulate judgement criteria, implement resolutions, and validate software changes
• Maintain test vehicles, coordinate logistics, perform repairs & retrofits, and support additional vehicle testing as needed
• Some travel to various destinations for vehicle testing on proving grounds.

What You'll Bring

• Currently pursuing a degree in Mechatronics, Robotics, Computer Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field of study with a graduation date between May 2027 - May 2028
• Proficiency with Python
• Experience developing tooling with microcontrollers
• Experience with software & hardware troubleshooting, ADAS testing, vehicle road testing, and/or development on DAS systems
• Experience with data-logging & analysis using data acquisition systems, CAN hardware, etc.
• Outstanding attention to detail and highly observational; ability to work in an extremely fast-paced environment, multitask, and coordinate multiple program & executive priorities in parallel
• Ability to interpret regulations and test procedures in collaboration with different teams and ability to communicate effectively with internal stakeholders and third parties
• Motorsports background and/or hobbies relating to driving is a plus
• Valid driver's license required
• This is a safety-sensitive position, subject to drug testing in accordance with Tesla policy and applicable law

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$32.93 - $46.11 + 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.