Internship, Powertrain Controls Engineer, Vehicle Controls

What to ExpectConsider 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.About the Team:The Tesla Powertrain Controls team works on design and implementation of control algorithms and software that ensures seamless torque delivery to every Tesla vehicle. The control algorithms at Tesla are strongly physics oriented, so the role requires an individual that can apply first-principles analysis and advanced control techniques for the design and implementation of novel, industry-leading torque path and powertrain control systems (specifically, controlling motors and brakes, while respecting and enforcing power limitations, to meet various longitudinal control and comfort goals). This role will also require working cross-functionally with various groups including Chassis Hardware, Vehicle Dynamics and Modeling, Firmware, Systems Integration, and Self Driving teams. Some well-known systems our team has developed and shipped include One Pedal Driving, Acceleration pedal response, Full Self Driving (FSD) longitudinal controls, Regen Backfill, and Off-road Trail Assist, as well as under-the-hood algorithms including torque split, regen blending, and driveline anti-knock algorithms to efficiently and comfortably allocate driver commands to the motors.What You'll DoDevelop control-oriented models of powertrain systems for analysis and estimationWork with Vehicle Dynamics Engineers to ensure sensing, actuation, and algorithm designs can deliver the desired vehicle dynamics attributesDevelop and implement control algorithms to maximize system capability and flexibilityDevelop and implement estimation and monitoring algorithms to maximize system safety and reliabilityWork with Firmware/Integration Engineers to test, debug, and calibrate the algorithms in simulation and in carEnsure stability and performance of the algorithms using software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tools, in the vehicle at proving grounds and in the customer fleetWhat You'll BringCurrently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or similar with a graduation date between August 2026 – May 2027Background in first principles linear systems analysis, state-estimation, and control designBasic understanding of the physics of electric drivetrains, and chassis actuators like brakes, steering, suspensions, etc.Good proficiency with engineering development tools like Matlab/Simulink/PythonBasic proficiency with software development in C/C++Real world experience with vehicle dynamics performance characteristics, preferredCompensation and BenefitsBenefitsAs a full-time Tesla Intern, you will be eligible for:Aetna PPO and HSA plans > 2 medical plan options with $0 payroll deductionFamily-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefitsDental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans. Both have an option with a $0 payroll contributionCompany Paid (Health Savings Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Medical Plan with HSAHealthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefitsCompany Paid Basic Life, AD&D, and short-term disability insuranceEmployee Assistance ProgramSick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions), and Paid HolidaysBack-up childcare and parenting support resourcesVoluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insuranceCommuter benefitsEmployee discounts and perks programExpected Compensation$ $56.12/hour + benefitsPay 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.Tesla is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. Tesla is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.