Robotics and Controls Engineering Intern
- Pay
- 82 USD
- Location
- Sunnyvale, CA
- Listed
- Today
About the role
Primary Function of Position
We are seeking a robotics and controls engineering intern to join the Future Forward development team working on a next generation medical robot. The focus of the internship will be on the development and testing of algorithms for controlling novel prototypes of robotic systems and instruments. The robotic and controls team works on the core interface of hardware and software, striving to improve patient outcomes through advanced robotic approaches.
Essential Job Duties
- Contribute to the analysis of complex medical electro-mechanical devices and servo control systems
- Design and implement scripts for testing and calibration of new mechanical designs and evaluation of algorithmic approaches
- Contribute to the development of real-time control algorithms
- Write reports and presentations detailing test results and the pros and cons of competing design approaches
University Hiring Program Eligibility Requirements
- University Enrollment: Must be currently enrolled in and returning to an accredited degree-seeking academic program after the internship.
- Internship Work Period: Must be available to work full-time (approximately 40 hours per week) during a 10-12 week period starting May or June. Specific start dates are shared during the recruiting process.
Required Education and Training
- Current enrollment in a Controls, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science or similar degree-seeking program at the Doctorate level. Master's level students would also be considered based on specific relevant experience.
- Strong foundational knowledge in motion control algorithms, familiarity with flexible systems and non-conventional actuation schemes
- Knowledge of software principles, practices and techniques including testability, maintainability and scalability.
- Demonstrated experience in software development; proficiency in Matlab and C/C++ preferred.
- Ability to communicate effectively (written, oral) with the team
- Ability to work well in a team environment
Additional Information
Due to the nature of our business and the role, please note that Intuitive and/or your customer(s) may require that you show current proof of vaccination against certain diseases including COVID-19. Details can vary by role.
Mandatory Notices
U.S. Export Controls Disclaimer: In accordance with the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (15 CFR §743.13(b)), some roles at Intuitive Surgical may be subject to U.S. export controls for prospective employees who are nationals from countries currently on embargo or sanctions status.
Certain information you provide as part of the application will be used for purposes of determining whether Intuitive Surgical will need to (i) obtain an export license from the U.S. Government on your behalf (note: the government's licensing process can take 3 to 6+ months) or (ii) implement a Technology Control Plan ("TCP") (note: typically adds 2 weeks to the hiring process).
For any Intuitive role subject to export controls, final offers are contingent upon obtaining an approved export license and/or an executed TCP prior to the prospective employee's start date, which may or may not be flexible, and within a timeframe that does not unreasonably impede the hiring need. If applicable, candidates will be notified and instructed on any requirements for these purposes.
Accommodation & Accessibility Notice
We provide market-competitive compensation packages, inclusive of base pay (paid at an hourly rate), benefits, and a housing allowance. It would not be typical for someone to be hired at the top end of range for the role, as actual pay will be determined based on several factors, including relevant skills and experience for this internship, degree-seeking academic program (PhD, Master's, Bachelor's, etc), year in school, and location. The hourly rate is prorated against the intern program salaries listed and total program compensation will be based on internship duration.
About the Company
It started with a simple idea: what if surgery could be less invasive and recovery less painful? Nearly 30 years later, that question still fuels everything we do at Intuitive. As a global leader in robotic-assisted surgery and minimally invasive care, our technologies-like the da Vinci surgical system and Ion -have transformed how care is delivered for millions of patients worldwide.
We're a team of engineers, clinicians, and innovators united by one purpose: to make surgery smarter, safer, and more human. Every day, our work helps care teams perform with greater precision and patients recover faster, improving outcomes around the world.
The problems we solve demand creativity, rigor, and collaboration. The work is challenging, but deeply meaningful-because every improvement we make has the potential to change a life.
If you're ready to contribute to something bigger than yourself and help transform the future of healthcare, you'll find your purpose here.
Equal opportunity and legal notices
Intuitive is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type, without regard to race, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, protected veteran or disability status, genetic information or any other status protected under federal, state, or local applicable laws.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with fair chance laws.
Intuitive is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance or an accommodation during any part of the application or interview process, please contact People Services at.
From Intuitive's careers page, first listed on Rolev.ai on November 10, 2026. Rolev.ai is not the employer.
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Common questions
What is the salary for the Robotics and Controls Engineering Intern role at Intuitive?
The Robotics and Controls Engineering Intern posting at Intuitive states compensation of 82 USD. Final pay may depend on location, experience, and interview evaluation on Intuitive's official career site.
Where is the Robotics and Controls Engineering Intern job at Intuitive located?
This Robotics and Controls Engineering Intern position at Intuitive is located in Sunnyvale, CA. Always check Intuitive's application page for specific state eligibility or relocation policies.
How do I apply for the Robotics and Controls Engineering Intern position at Intuitive?
This listing links directly to Intuitive's SmartRecruiters application page. You can apply directly on Intuitive's site, or use Rolev.ai to check your resume fit, generate a zero-hallucination tailored resume and cover letter for this posting, and autofill the SmartRecruiters application form in 1 click with the Rolev.ai Chrome extension. You always review the form and press Submit yourself.