About the role#
The Optimus team is looking for a Technical Program Manager intern to drive hardware development for the Fall 2026 term. You will manage execution for new hardware, including testing, industrialization, and design improvements. As a central owner for specific hardware subsystem project plans, you will support the engineering team by tracking schedules and metrics across active projects.
What you'll do#
- Create, own, and manage design, build, industrialization, and test plans.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams across multiple continents to prioritize and manage high-impact changes.
- Track key program metrics such as cost, reliability, mass, and performance to schedule.
- Work with Global Sourcing, Supplier Industrialization, and external suppliers to ensure production demand is met.
- Drive escalation and resolution for any risks to the project schedule.
- Lead the development of design, testing, and validation timelines, DFMEAs, and DFMs.
- Manage prototype sourcing and logistics, including the shipment of test units.
- Collaborate with engineering owners on product updates and ensure changes are documented and implemented.
- Organize technical reviews, testing, and validation planning.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an academic program pursuing a degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or a related field.
- Prior program management experience or experience leading a team, such as FSAE or Hyperloop.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, JIRA, Confluence, and Git.
- Proven ability to drive initiatives to conclusion.
- Strong technical communication skills and a proactive, organized approach to work.
Location & details#
- Location: Palo Alto, California.
- Term: Fall 2026.
- Modality: This is a full-time, on-site role requiring 40 hours per week.
- Duration: A minimum of 12 weeks is required.
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.
