About the role#
The Low-Power AI, Audio, and Sensors Subsystem (LPAISS/HPASS) team develops the hardware and firmware that power Qualcomm's mobile processors, wearables, and automotive solutions. As an intern, you will work alongside ASIC design, verification, and software architecture teams to build and validate the next generation of hardware interfaces, AI engines, and accelerators.
What you'll do#
- Write reference firmware for current and next-generation hardware.
- Enable and validate AI engines, audio interfaces, and hardware accelerators.
- Develop custom firmware on emulation environments and bare-metal development hardware.
- Debug code and participate in verification activities during pre- and post-silicon phases.
- Build dashboards and automation frameworks using AI technologies.
- Develop high-bandwidth performance use cases and measure system metrics.
- Create reference models using UI tools like QT or Visual Studio .NET.
- Use diagnostic equipment including protocol analyzers, high-speed scopes, logic analyzers, and JTAG debuggers.
- Use C, C++, and Python to develop or enhance engineering use cases.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- At least one semester of university remaining after the internship concludes.
- Graduation date of November 2028 or later.
- Minimum of 1 year of academic experience with C, C++, or Python.
- Understanding of computer hardware, including caches, buses, memory, and clocking.
- Knowledge of digital circuits and object-oriented programming.
- Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills.
- Experience with lab equipment like scopes is preferred.
- Familiarity with FPGA fundamentals or school projects involving FPGAs is a plus.
- Knowledge of Real-Time Operating Systems, I2S/PCM protocols, or data coherency and MMUs is an asset.
- Understanding of AI models, frameworks, and machine learning mathematics (algebra and geometry).
Location & details#
- Location: Markham, Ontario, Canada.
- Term: Summer 2027 start (12 or 16-month duration).
- Modality: On-site.
- This is a paid, full-time internship.
About Qualcomm
Qualcomm manufactures semiconductors and develops computing technologies. Founded in 1985, the company maintains its headquarters in San Diego. It serves markets including mobile, automotive, and the internet of things. The organization employs more than 10,000 people and operates as a public company.
How to get in at Qualcomm
Applying to Qualcomm early provides a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications before the volume of candidates becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, which helps you apply among the first. This timing ensures your materials are seen while the team is still actively building their shortlist. Reaching out to the right people often yields better results than submitting through a general portal. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind Qualcomm roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the position or a referral. This approach materially improves your response rates compared to waiting in a queue.
