About the role#
This internship focuses on the mechanical design of the Optimus robotics platform. You will work within the Tesla AI department to support the development of advanced robotic systems. This is a full-time, on-site role based in Palo Alto, California, spanning the Winter and Spring 2027 terms.
What you'll do#
- Create CAD designs for individual parts and master model assemblies.
- Run simulations including Finite Element Analysis and tolerance analysis before production.
- Produce 2D drawings for high-volume manufacturing and inspection processes.
- Lead Design for Manufacturing reviews with suppliers and assist with tooling.
- Design automated fixtures and calibration equipment for robotics hardware.
- Manage the mechanical design of test equipment from initial concept to final deployment.
- Interpret and create electrical and pneumatic schematics.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a degree program for Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a related field.
- A graduation date between May 2027 and December 2027.
- Proficiency in 3D modeling software, with a preference for CATIA.
- Experience with engineering drawings and tolerance stack-up analysis, specifically GD&T.
- A strong grasp of structural optimization using hand calculations or FEA.
- Foundational knowledge of gearboxes, motors, inverters, and wire harness design.
- Skills in MATLAB, Simulink, or Python.
- Practical experience with fabrication, machining, and basic electronics.
- Exposure to tools such as SolidWorks, Altium, and Golang.
Location & details#
- Location: Palo Alto, California.
- Term: Winter 2027 through Spring 2027.
- Work Modality: On-site, 40 hours per week.
- Compensation: $20.00 - $55.00 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.
