Physics Engine Development Engineer Optimus Internship (May 2026)

Location details

On-site

  • United States

    United States

    • California

Location

California

Closing in 1 month

Opportunity details

  • Opportunity typeInternship, Clerkship or Placement
  • SalaryUSD 20 - 55 / Hour
  • Application open dateApply by 10 Mar 2026
  • Start dateStart date 1 May 2026 - 31 May 2026

Develop physics-based simulation modules for robotics at Tesla, optimizing performance and collaborating to minimize sim-to-real gaps.

Your Role

Here’s what you will be doing:

  • Develop physics-based high-fidelity simulation modules for robotics applications, ensuring accurate and reliable modeling of complex systems
  • Optimize simulation performance to achieve high throughput while preserving simulation fidelity
  • Collaborate with training and hardware design teams to minimize sim-to-real gap from all angles and perspectives

About You

What you'll need:

  • Currently pursuing a degree in Physics, Mathematics, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • Extensive experience in robotics physics engine development, supported by first-author publications or impactful projects
  • Deep understanding of algorithm complexity and data structures
  • Deep understanding of control theory
  • Familiarity with compiler principles and differentiable simulations
  • Exceptional skills in C++, Python, CUDA, and GPU programming
  • Excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach to problem-solving

Compensation & Benefits

  • Hourly pay ranging from $20.00 to $55.00 plus benefits
  • Aetna PPO and HSA plans with $0 payroll deduction options
  • Family-building, fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits
  • Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans with $0 payroll contribution options
  • Company-paid Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution when enrolled in 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
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Sick and vacation time, paid holidays
  • Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
  • Voluntary benefits including critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
  • Commuter benefits
  • Employee discounts and perks program

Training & Development

The internship program offers growth technically, professionally, and personally through close work with a Manager, Mentor, and team, providing experience on critical projects.

How to Apply

Applicants must be actively enrolled in an academic program and able to work full-time (40 hours/week) on-site for a minimum of 12 weeks starting May 2026 through summer term. International students with CPT work authorization should consult their school regarding eligibility to work full-time on-site before applying.

This job may close before the stated closing date, you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible

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Work rights

The opportunity is available to applicants in any of the following categories.

Work right - United States
United States
US CitizenUS Permanent ResidentUS Student Visa

Qualifications & other requirements

You should have or be completing the following to apply for this opportunity.

Degree or Certificate
Qualification level
Qualification level
Bachelor or higher
Study field
Study field (any)
Engineering & Mathematics
  • Electrical & Electronic Engineering
  • Mathematics & Statistics
  • Robotics & Mechatronics Engineering
Sciences
  • Physics

Hiring criteria

  • Experience requirementNo experience required
  • Working rights
    US Citizen
  • Study fields
    Engineering & Mathematics
  • Degree typesBachelor or higher
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About the employer

logo-tesla-450x450-2022

Tesla USA

Number of employees

> 100,000 employees

Industries

R&D and Manufacturing

Tesla is an American multinational automotive and clean energy company based in Austin, Texas.