Summer 2027 Machine Learning Intern
About the role
This is a 12-week, onsite internship within AV’s Summer Internship Program, designed for highly motivated students currently enrolled in college or recent graduates. The program provides hands-on experience in the aerospace and defense industry, working on meaningful projects with cutting-edge technology while developing professional relationships and problem-solving skills. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with preference given to juniors or above. Relocation and housing reimbursement may be available for students willing to relocate, depending on team and location.
Responsibilities
- Support the development of computer vision and machine learning algorithms for detecting, classifying, localizing, and tracking objects-of-interest using UAV-mounted gimballed cameras.
- Assist in writing and testing software to integrate ML algorithms into aircraft systems (e.g., autopilots, payloads, robotic platforms).
- Explore and visualize data to understand distribution patterns and potential anomalies.
- Assist in implementing machine learning systems and validating designs through experiments.
- Help define objectives, develop models, and track their performance using metrics.
- Perform data analysis tasks using AV tools and industry-standard platforms.
- Help manage project resources such as datasets, hardware, and time to support project timelines.
- Contribute to the evaluation of ML algorithm performance and model deployment strategies.
- Participate in data preparation activities, including cleaning and transformation.
- Assist in error analysis and developing corrective strategies.
- Research and experiment with appropriate ML algorithms and tools.
- Support running tests and experiments on selected datasets and data representations.
- Follow standard procedures to analyze data and support development tasks.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a BS in Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Familiarity with C/C++ and MATLAB.
- Proficiency with office productivity tools.
- Basic troubleshooting skills for technical systems.
Other Skills & Qualifications
- Exposure to deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, Keras).
- Familiarity with Python and libraries such as scikit-learn and pandas.
- Experience with data visualization and handling large datasets.
- Exposure to OpenCV and working in a Linux environment.
- Understanding of key concepts in:
- Machine learning
- Computer vision
- Mathematical optimization
- Data mining
- Predictive analytics
- Ability to assist in selecting hardware/software for model deployment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
- Strong initiative and eagerness to learn in a fast-paced R&D environment.
- Willingness to take ownership of tasks and learn from feedback.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work independently under supervision.
Physical Demands
- Ability to work in an office and lab environment.
- May be required to sit or stand for long periods, use hands/fingers for computer and communication tasks.
ITAR Requirement
This position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants will be asked to provide documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and EAR, which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents (green card holders), or protected individuals such as refugees or asylees. Some positions may require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.