About the role#
The Body Controls team develops the firmware, sensing, and control systems for Tesla vehicles. You will work on the embedded software that powers tactile interactions, from door responses to interior lighting. This role involves building safety-critical systems and shaping the customer experience on our autonomous vehicle platform.
What you'll do#
- Write high-quality C code for a real-time embedded environment.
- Design software architecture and implement firmware for embedded subsystems.
- Own the firmware life cycle from initial prototype to high-volume production.
- Perform hands-on hardware bring-up, system debugging, and code optimization.
- Develop software tests and work alongside validation teams.
- Make technical trade-offs to meet performance and product requirements.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a degree program for Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Systems Engineering.
- Graduation date between May 2027 and May 2028.
- Proficiency in C and strong software design fundamentals.
- Solid Electrical Engineering knowledge, including circuit analysis and design.
- Experience with embedded microprocessor tools.
- Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly.
- Familiarity with MISRA C, controls software development, or RTOS and bare-metal development is preferred.
Location & details#
- This internship is based on-site in Palo Alto, California.
- Terms available: Winter 2027 and Spring 2027.
- This is a full-time, paid position requiring 40 hours per week.
- Applicants 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.
