About the role#
As an intern on the Optimus Actuator Design Team, you will contribute to the electromechanical actuator designs that power the Optimus humanoid robot. You will work alongside engineers to develop new robotic components in a hands-on environment.
What you'll do#
- Create CAD designs for actuator components.
- Assemble and test prototypes.
- Develop test scripts and actuator models using Python and Matlab.
- Perform hands-on testing of actuators and components, including motors, gears, and sensors.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a related field.
- Graduation date between May 2027 and December 2027.
- Proficiency in CAD software, specifically CATIA or Solidworks.
- Experience with mechanical design, including part optimization, design for manufacturing, technical drawings, and GD&T.
- Experience with FEA based part design and optimization.
- Knowledge of Python or Matlab for data structure management, UI development, symbolic equations, and iterative solvers.
- Shop experience, such as machining or 3D printed part design.
- Ability to solve problems using first principles thinking.
- Strong communication skills and curiosity.
- Experience in Robotics and Control Theory, including motor and motion control, is preferred.
Location & details#
- Location: Palo Alto, California.
- Term: Winter 2027 and Spring 2027.
- Modality: This is a full-time, on-site position requiring 40 hours per week.
- Compensation: This is a paid internship.
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.
