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.
International Students: If your work authorization is through CPT, please consult your school on your ability to work 40 hours per week before applying. You must be able to work 40 hours per week on-site. Many students will be limited to part-time during the academic year.
The Internship Recruiting Team is driven by the passion to recognize and develop emerging talent. Our year-round program places the best students in positions where they will grow technically, professionally, and personally through their experience working closely with their Manager, Mentor, and team. We are dedicated to providing an experience that allows the intern to experience life at Tesla by including them in projects that are critical to their team’s success.
Tesla’s mission is to accelerate the world’s transition to renewable energy. This isn’t just a slogan to us. We are building the largest battery storage systems in the world. We are constantly expanding the Supercharger network, the largest electric car charging network ever. We are growing the largest fleets of residential solar, battery storage,and car charging devices in many countries around the world. And we need your help.
The Tesla Energy team is seeking a motivated Software Engineering Intern to contribute to the development of software for our AC Charging products (Tesla Mobile Connector, Tesla Wall Connector), which power the majority of Tesla’s vehicle fleet. These products are critical to making EV charging reliable, scalable, and intelligent for residential, commercial, and industrial use. As an intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience with embedded systems, collaborate with experienced engineers, and help innovate solutions that improve charging infrastructure, grid integration, and user experience.
Location: Palo Alto, CA
What You'll Do
Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and cross-functional teams to support the design and implementation of device softwareContribute to testing efforts by writing unit tests and participating in system validation (e.g., hardware/software-in-the-loop)Learn and apply best practices in system architecture, code quality, and security (e.g., cryptographic techniques, secure networking)Support troubleshooting and debugging efforts to enhance product reliability and performanceAssist in developing embedded software for safety-critical charging processes, communications, and sensor/actuator interfaces
What You'll Bring
Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related fieldBasic experience with embedded software development (e.g., coursework, personal projects, or prior internships)Familiarity with programming in C/C++ or similar languagesExposure to IoT/embedded environments (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi, FreeRTOS) or communication protocols (e.g., UART, Wi-Fi, BLE)Eagerness to learn about EV charging standards (e.g., ISO15118, OCPP) and connected-device ecosystemsStrong problem-solving skills and enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced, collaborative environmentCoursework or projects involving: Internet protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP) or RTOS/Linux systems, smart home standards (Thread, HomeKit) or EV charging protocols, testing frameworks and test-driven developmentInterest in renewable energy, grid management, or sustainable transportation
Benefits
Compensation and 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
$20.00 - $50.00/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.
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