New

Internship, Applied AI Engineer, AI Hardware (Summer 2026)

Tesla Motors, Inc.
50.00 - 70.00 USD
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, California, Palo Alto
Feb 18, 2026
What to Expect Consider before submitting an application: This position is expected to start May 2026 and continue through summer term (ending approximately August 2026 or later, if available). We ask for a minimum of 12 weeks, full-time (40 hours/week) and on-site, for most internships. Our internship program is for students who are actively enrolled in an academic program.Recent graduates seeking employment after graduation and not returning to school should apply for full-time positions, not internships. The Tesla AI Hardware team is at the forefront of revolutionizing artificial intelligence through cutting-edge hardware innovation. Comprising brilliant engineers and visionaries, the team designs and develops advanced AI inference chips tailored to accelerate Tesla's machine learning capabilities. A key part of this effort is Dojo, Tesla's custom supercomputer system built to efficiently train massive neural networks on vast video data from the fleet. The work of Tesla's AI Hardware team powers the neural networks behind Full Self-Driving (FSD), and Tesla humanoid robot, Optimus, pushing the boundaries of computational efficiency and performance. By creating custom silicon and optimized architectures, the team ensures Tesla remains a leader in AI-driven automotive and energy solutions, shaping a future where intelligent machines enhance human life. The AI Hardware Engineering team at Tesla is transforming HW development through AI-driven innovation to supercharge custom silicon for Full Self-Driving and Optimus robotics. We are framing silicon development as an end-to-end machine intelligence problem: infusing neural networks into synthesis, placement, routing, and verification flows, where every simulation cycle yields actionable data, every constraint optimization trains smarter algorithms, and every silicon revision hones our models for unprecedented speed and efficiency in next-gen autonomous systems. What You'll Do Design and develop AI-powered applicationsranging from static timing analysis to physical synthesis optimization and automationenhancements Oversee the setup, configuration, and performance tuning of EDA tools for digital, analog, and mixed-signal design, including simulation (e.g., SPICE, Verilog simulators), synthesis, place-and-route, verification, and layout tools from vendors like Cadence, Synopsys, or Siemens Create or customizesolutions(e.g., inTcl, Perl, or Python) to automate EDAflows, improve efficiency, and address specific design challenges in simulation, verification, or layout Assistin formal verification, timing analysis, DRC/LVS checks, and ensuring designs meet fabrication standards Collaborate cross-functionally with software and hardware teams to accelerate the hardware development lifecycle Strive to close the gap between AI-drivenEDA and traditional sign-off ready tools What You'll Bring Currently pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Applied Physics, or related fields with a graduation date between December 2026- August 2027 VLSI foundation in analog/digital circuit design, including transistor-level modeling, layoutparasitics, and custom IC flows Expertisein Python + ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX); experience with graph ML (e.g.,PyG, DGL) for netlists and geometric data Hands-on integration with EDA tools like Cadence Virtuoso,Spectre, Synopsys HSPICE,PrimeTimeand familiarity withopportunitiesfor AI enhancement Knowledge of static timing analysis, routing tools, and potential AI applications Proventrack recordin data pipelines for engineering datasets: curation, augmentation, and versioning for circuit simulation outputs Bias for action, experimentation mindset, and ability to thrive in ambiguous, high-stakes environments with rapid prototyping Compensation and Benefits Benefits As a full-time Tesla Intern, you will be eligible for: Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction Family-building, 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 Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) 401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits Company Paid Basic Life, AD&D, and short-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period) 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 Commuter benefits Employee discounts and perks program Expected Compensation $50.00 - $70.00/hour + benefits Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.