About the role#
The Silicon Development team builds the custom Autopilot Full Self-Driving SoC that powers Tesla vehicles. As an embedded software intern, you will work at the intersection of hardware and software. You will develop firmware for the custom SoC, working alongside hardware architects to ensure the system is functional, performant, and reliable. This role involves writing high-performance, safety-critical code that runs on both pre-silicon platforms like FPGA and emulation, as well as target hardware.
What you'll do#
- Write, review, and debug C code for RTOS and real-time environments.
- Bring up and test firmware on pre-silicon platforms and on target boards.
- Write or extend low-level drivers for interfaces such as SPI, I2C, UART, PCIe, and DDR.
- Support communication stacks including CAN, CAN-FD, and Ethernet.
- Debug at the hardware level using JTAG debuggers, logic analyzers, and oscilloscopes.
- Write Python automation for code generation, test execution, and log analysis.
- Add unit tests and hardware-in-the-loop tests for new code.
- Improve the build system and developer tools.
- Record design details, results, and open risks.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Expected graduation date between May 2027 and May 2028.
- Solid C programming skills, including knowledge of pointers, memory layout, and bit manipulation.
- Understanding of microprocessor fundamentals like interrupts, registers, and memory maps.
- Ability to read a datasheet or register map and translate it into working code.
- Comfort with Linux, git, and the command line.
- Clear technical communication skills for interacting with hardware, validation, and manufacturing teams.
- A methodical approach to debugging by forming and testing hypotheses.
Location & details#
- Location: Palo Alto, California.
- Terms: Winter 2027, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027.
- Modality: Full-time, on-site.
- Compensation: $125,000 annually plus benefits.
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.
