About the role#
The Powertrain Controls team designs the algorithms and software that manage torque delivery in Tesla vehicles. You will apply physics-based analysis to create control systems for motors and brakes while managing power limits and driver comfort. This role requires collaboration across teams including Chassis Hardware, Vehicle Dynamics, Firmware, and Systems Integration.
What you'll do#
- Build control-oriented models of powertrain systems for estimation and analysis.
- Partner with Vehicle Dynamics Engineers to align sensing and algorithm design with vehicle performance goals.
- Implement control algorithms to increase system flexibility and capability.
- Create estimation and monitoring algorithms to improve system safety.
- Test, debug, and calibrate algorithms in simulation and inside vehicles alongside Firmware and Integration Engineers.
- Verify algorithm performance using SIL and HIL tools.
- Develop visualization and simulation tools to support the controls development process.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
- Graduation date between May 2027 and May 2028.
- Background in linear systems analysis, state-estimation, and control design.
- Understanding of electric drivetrain physics and chassis actuators such as brakes, steering, and suspensions.
- Proficiency with Matlab, Simulink, and Python.
- Basic software development skills in C or C++.
- Experience with vehicle dynamics performance characteristics.
Location & details#
- Location: Palo Alto, California.
- Term: Winter, Spring, or Summer 2027.
- Modality: Full-time, 40 hours per week, on-site.
- Compensation: $50.06 to $58.89 per hour 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.
