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Jobs · Quality Assurance · California

Internship, Software Validation Engineer, Vehicle Firmware (Fall 2026)

Tesla · Palo Alto, CA · 1 mo ago
On-siteQuality Assurance$42.07–$58.89/hrInternship

About the role

The position is expected to start August or September 2026 and continue through fall term (ending approximately December 2026) or continuing into Winter/Spring 2027 if available and there is an opportunity to do so. We ask for a minimum of 12 weeks, full-time (40 hours/week) and on-site, for most internships.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute comprehensive system-level validation plans for the continuous improvement of existing products and the launch of new products
  • Specify, design, develop and integrate test automation frameworks, tools and sub-system test-setups using Python, C++ and Rust
  • Collaborate directly with firmware, hardware and controls engineers to identify, diagnose, and resolve issues early in the development cycle
  • Analyze test results, generate reports, and provide recommendations for product improvements
  • Investigate real-world field issues, identify root causes, and work with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions
  • Continuously look for ways to improve the safety, performance, and customer satisfaction with Tesla products
  • Develop prototype test setups to integrate new subsystems with simulated or actual vehicle components, utilizing software driven test automation

Requirements

Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field of study with a graduation date between December 2026 – December 2027

Strong fundamentals in electrical, mechanical, controls and systems engineering concepts

Hands on experience debugging complex systems involving networked microprocessors and software-controlled electrical and electromechanical sensors and actuators

Experience with test automation, object-oriented software design (Python, C++, Rust), and debugging tools

Experience with HIL/SIL environments, test benches, and simulation-based validation

Experience with vehicle communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet) and diagnostic tools

Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with cross-functional teams

Qualifications

Interns will directly impact the continuous development of software for existing and new vehicle programs by contributing to the validation strategy and building new automated test infrastructure.

Skills

Strong fundamentals in electrical, mechanical, controls and systems engineering concepts

Hands on experience debugging complex systems involving networked microprocessors and software-controlled electrical and electromechanical sensors and actuators

Experience with test automation, object-oriented software design (Python, C++, Rust), and debugging tools

Experience with HIL/SIL environments, test benches, and simulation-based validation

Experience with vehicle communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet) and diagnostic tools

Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with cross-functional teams

Benefits

  • Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction
  • Fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits
  • Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans. Both have an option with a $0 payroll contribution
  • Company Paid (Health Savings Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Medical Plan with HSA
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • 401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions), and Paid Holidays
  • Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
  • Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
  • Employee discounts and perks program

Pay

Expected Compensation $42.07 - $58.89/hour + benefits

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