Internship, Hardware Validation Engineer, Optimus (Winter/Spring 2027)

This position is expected to start around January 2027 and continue through the entire Spring term (ending approximately May 2027 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. International Students: If your work authorization is through CPT, please consult your school before applying. You must be able to work 40 hours per week. Many students will be limited to part-time depending on their academic standing. Tesla Internship Program The Internship Recruiting Team is passionate about recognizing emerging talent. Our year-round program places the best students in positions where they will grow both technically and personally through their experience working closely with their manager, mentor, and team. Tesla is dedicated to providing an experience that allows forinterns to experience life at Tesla by giving them projects that are critical to their team’s and the company’s success. You’ll be seated at the table making critical decisions that will influence your team, and the overall achievement of Tesla’s mission. About the Team The Optimus Hardware Validation team is at the heart of building the world’s first truly functional humanoid robot. We’re a dynamic, fast-paced team of engineers and technicians dedicated to ensuring the reliability, safety, and performance of every subsystem in Tesla’s Optimus robot — from individual actuators to full system integration. We work closely with design, software, firmware, control, materials, and reliability teams across the company, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in robotics. Our work spans real-world testing, failure analysis, data-driven validation, and the development of next-generation test methodologies — all to ensure Optimus can perform reliably in complex, unpredictable environments.

Responsibilities

Design and build custom test rigs that push electrical systems, mechanical actuators, and full subsystems to their limits under real-world stress Develop smart Python scripts to automate hardware control and capture high-fidelity data in real time Run dynamic reliability tests including thermal cycling, heavy loading, and endurance runs that simulate actual robot use Dive into data to uncover root causes and failure modes, then partner with design teams to drive rapid breakthroughs Strengthen validation processes with sensors, DAQ tools, and clear documentation that accelerates Optimus development

Requirements

Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics, Mechatronics, or related engineering discipline Strong foundational knowledge in engineering principles Hands-on experience with test equipment and data acquisition systems Proficiency in Python for automation, data processing, and instrument control Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA, etc.) and/or electronic design software (Altium, Spice) Passion for humanoid robotics, robotics innovation, and real-world engineering challenges Strong problem-solving mindset, attention to detail, and ability to thrive in a fast-moving, collaborative environment