About the role#
The thermal systems software team is looking for a systems integration engineering intern to support development on all Tesla vehicles. You will assist with software development, integration, and validation for new features related to powertrain and cabin climate control. This role focuses on improving system performance and efficiency by reviewing source code, testing prototypes, and diagnosing issues.
What you'll do#
- Help design and development engineers ensure subsystems meet vehicle function requirements.
- Break down feature requests into subsystem requirements and assist with implementation and testing.
- Develop validation strategies and create automated test coverage for firmware releases.
- Work across teams to understand hardware changes and support them in firmware.
- Analyze data and source code to identify and debug system-level issues.
- Assist manufacturing and service teams during feature rollouts and diagnosis.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a degree in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
- Graduation date between May 2027 and May 2028.
- Hands-on experience debugging complex systems involving networked microprocessors and software-controlled electrical or electromechanical devices.
- Ability to use programming to solve problems and automate tasks.
- Experience with C/C++.
- Understanding of low voltage and high voltage circuits and how to debug them.
- Preferred: Experience with Python, CAN and Vector CAN tools, FMEA, and HARA.
Location & details#
- Location: Palo Alto, California, United States.
- Term: Winter 2027 (January through May 2027).
- Commitment: Full-time (40 hours per week) and on-site for a minimum of 12 weeks.
- Eligibility: You must be actively enrolled in an academic program.
About Tesla
Tesla produces electric vehicles, battery storage systems, and solar energy products. Founded in 2003, the company operates six vertically integrated factories across three continents. It is headquartered in Austin, Texas, and employs over 10,000 people. The organization designs, manufactures, sells, and services its products internally.
How to get in at Tesla
Applying early at Tesla provides a distinct advantage because recruiters review candidates before the applicant pool becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first and get seen before the pile grows. Reaching out to the right people often yields better results than submitting to a general queue. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the position or a referral, which materially improves your response rates.



