About the role#
As a Software Systems Intern on the HP IQ team, you will work on low-level software that operates close to the hardware. This role focuses on the mechanics of intelligent product experiences. You will investigate how systems function under the hood, analyze performance, and optimize software that interacts directly with system resources.
What you'll do#
- Build and optimize low-level software using C and C++.
- Investigate performance bottlenecks to improve system speed, efficiency, and reliability.
- Develop data processing and sensor pipelines that connect software to hardware.
- Analyze memory usage, resource management, and overall system performance.
- Work across multiple layers of the software stack to understand component interactions.
- Contribute to build systems, libraries, tooling, and system configuration.
- Debug complex system-level issues.
- Partner with firmware and electrical engineering teams to solve technical problems.
- Own a technical project from initial exploration through implementation and evaluation.
What you'll need#
- Current pursuit of a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics.
- Programming experience in C or C++.
- Strong grasp of computer science fundamentals, including algorithms and data structures.
- Familiarity with systems concepts like memory management, operating systems, concurrency, or computer architecture.
- Experience building or optimizing complex software through coursework, research, or personal projects.
- An interest in working close to hardware.
- Ability to break down technical problems and communicate your approach.
- Preferred: Experience with modern C++, Android development, Linux Kernel drivers, hardware accelerators, ARM SOC architecture, bare-metal firmware, or using lab equipment like logic analyzers.
Location & details#
- Location: San Francisco, California.
- Term: Summer 2027 (May/June through August/September).
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Employment: Full-time.
- Pay: $40-$50 per hour.
About HP
HP operates as a public company within the IT services and consulting sector. The business maintains a global presence with headquarters in Palo Alto, California. It employs over 143,000 people across various international offices. The organization provides technology products and services to a broad customer base.
How to get in at HP
Applying early at HP provides a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first, early applicants get seen before the pile grows. This helps you avoid the frustration of submitting your resume to a crowded queue that may already be closed. You can focus your energy on roles where your profile aligns with the team needs. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the role or a referral, which materially improves response rates. Connecting with a human at HP allows you to demonstrate your interest beyond a standard application form. It is a practical way to navigate the hiring process with more clarity.



