About the role#
The Motion Planning team builds the decision-making and trajectory generation systems for Zipline's autonomous aircraft. As an intern, you will help us measure system performance, analyze data, and drive the next generation of algorithmic designs. You will work directly with our team to prioritize development that produces the highest impact on our delivery operations.
What you'll do#
- Develop and evaluate motion planning algorithms for autonomous aircraft.
- Build simulation and analysis tools to compare planner behavior and investigate challenging scenarios.
- Use simulation and flight data to identify long-tail issues, validate safety metrics, and guide improvements.
- Transition experimental solutions to scalable, real-world applications.
- Collaborate with team members to brainstorm and derive creative solutions from first principles.
- Share findings and insights to foster knowledge exchange across teams.
What you'll need#
- Working toward a BS, MS, or PhD in engineering, computer science, or robotics.
- Experience with C++ or Rust.
- Familiarity with planning and search algorithms or trajectory optimization.
- Familiarity solving problems involving real-world physics and dynamics.
- Solid engineering intuition for keeping things simple and solving the right problems.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site internship based in South San Francisco, California.
- The term runs from May/June to August/September 2027.
- This position is paid.
About Zipline
Zipline operates an automated delivery system using robotics and autonomous technology. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on logistics for healthcare and retail sectors. It maintains a global presence with operations in countries including Rwanda and Ghana, alongside services in the United States. The organization is based in South San Francisco and employs nearly 1,900 people.
How to get in at Zipline
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