About the role#
The Design Technology team builds tools for the engineers who design our vehicles, batteries, and robotics. You will work within the Vehicle Engineering department to create software that automates and streamlines the design process. This role involves building web applications and backend systems that help mechanical and design engineers complete their projects.
What you'll do#
- Build web applications for professional design engineers and program managers.
- Write reusable, modular code components.
- Collaborate with other engineers to integrate backend systems and solve networking challenges.
- Partner with mechanical and design teams to support research and implement new features.
- Maintain and improve existing applications used by the Vehicle Engineering team.
- Manage database design and handle migrations.
- Integrate data with frontend applications using Next.js.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a Computer Science degree program or equivalent experience.
- Full stack web development experience with React, Next.js, and TypeScript.
- Experience building backend systems and APIs with Python or Go.
- Proficiency in PostgreSQL, including writing complex SQL statements and managing database concepts like views and functions.
- Experience with ORMs like Drizzle and state management libraries like Redux.
- Knowledge of software engineering practices including version control, CI/CD, and agile development.
- Experience with Docker, Kubernetes, Jenkins, and cloud platforms like AWS, GCP, or Azure.
- Ability to debug live software systems and build data-intensive applications.
- Strong knowledge of at least one language such as TypeScript, Go, Java, C++, C#, Python, or Bash.
- Understanding of distributed systems, event streaming, microservice architecture, and REST or gRPC APIs.
- Familiarity with CAD tools like Catia/3DX and Solidworks is a plus.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site internship based in Palo Alto or Fremont, California.
- The program runs from January 2027 through May 2027, with potential for extension into the summer.
- A minimum commitment of 12 weeks is required.
- This position is paid.
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.



