Software Validation Engineer, Vehicle Firmware Summer Internship (May 2026)

Join Tesla’s Systems Validation team to develop and execute system-level validation plans and build automated test infrastructure for vehicle software.

Your Role

Here’s what you will be doing:

• Develop and execute comprehensive system-level validation plans for existing and new vehicle products
• Specify, design, develop, and integrate test automation frameworks, tools, and sub-system test setups using Python, C++, and Rust
• Collaborate with firmware, hardware, and controls engineers to identify, diagnose, and resolve issues early in development
• 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 improve safety, performance, and customer satisfaction of Tesla products
• Learn, set, teach, and apply software best practices, tools, and technologies

About You

The company is looking for:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field with graduation between September 2026 and September 2027
• Understanding of physics fundamentals and first principles concepts
• Hands-on experience debugging complex systems involving networked microprocessors and software-controlled electrical or electromechanical devices
• Experience with Python or other scripting languages and/or C/C++ for embedded systems
• Ability to use oscilloscopes, multimeters, and other electrical test instruments for troubleshooting
• Strong collaboration and communication skills for complex technical concepts
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with cross-functional teams

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly pay range: $36.06 - $56.13 plus benefits
• Aetna PPO and HSA medical plans with $0 payroll deduction options
• Family-building, fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits
• Dental (including orthodontic) and vision plans with $0 payroll contribution options
• Company-paid Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution with High Deductible Medical Plan
• 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

Interns work closely with their Manager, Mentor, and team to grow technically, professionally, and personally through hands-on projects critical to team success.

Career Progression

Opportunities to continue into Fall 2026 or beyond if available, supporting ongoing vehicle programs and new product launches.

How to Apply

Applicants must be actively enrolled students eligible to work full-time on-site for a minimum of 12 weeks starting around May 2026 through Summer term, with potential extension into Fall 2026. International students using CPT should confirm work authorization for 40 hours per week before applying.

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

Report this job