Internship, Applied AI Engineer, AI Hardware (Fall 2026)

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.

The Tesla AI Hardware team is at the forefront of revolutionizing artificial intelligence through cutting-edge hardware innovation. Comprising brilliant engineers and visionaries, the team designs and develops advanced AI inference chips tailored to accelerate Tesla’s machine learning capabilities. A key part of this effort is Dojo, Tesla's custom supercomputer system built to efficiently train massive neural networks on vast video data from the fleet. The work of Tesla's AI Hardware team powers the neural networks behind Full Self-Driving (FSD), and Tesla humanoid robot, Optimus, pushing the boundaries of computational efficiency and performance. By creating custom silicon and optimized architectures, the team ensures Tesla remains a leader in AI-driven automotive and energy solutions, shaping a future where intelligent machines enhance human life.

The AI Hardware Engineering team at Tesla is transforming HW development through AI-driven innovation to supercharge custom silicon for Full Self-Driving and Optimus robotics. We are framing silicon development as an end-to-end machine intelligence problem: infusing neural networks into synthesis, placement, routing, and verification flows, where every simulation cycle yields actionable data, every constraint optimization trains smarter algorithms, and every silicon revision hones our models for unprecedented speed and efficiency in next-gen autonomous systems.

What You'll Do* Design and develop AI-powered applications ranging from static timing analysis to physical synthesis optimization and automation enhancements

• Oversee the setup, configuration, and performance tuning of EDA tools for digital, analog, and mixed-signal design, including simulation (e.g., SPICE, Verilog simulators), synthesis, place-and-route, verification, and layout tools from vendors like Cadence, Synopsys, or Siemens
• Create or customize solutions (e.g., in Tcl, Perl, or Python) to automate EDA flows, improve efficiency, and address specific design challenges in simulation, verification, or layout
• Assist in formal verification, timing analysis, DRC/LVS checks, and ensuring designs meet fabrication standards
• Collaborate cross-functionally with software and hardware teams to accelerate the hardware development lifecycle
• Strive to close the gap between AI-driven EDA and traditional sign-off ready tools

What You'll Bring* Currently pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Applied Physics, or related fields with a graduation date between December 2026- August 2027

• VLSI foundation in analog/digital circuit design, including transistor-level modeling, layout parasitics, and custom IC flows
• Expertise in Python + ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX); experience with graph ML (e.g., PyG, DGL) for netlists and geometric data
• Hands-on integration with EDA tools like Cadence Virtuoso, Spectre, Synopsys HSPICE, PrimeTime and familiarity with opportunities for AI enhancement
• Knowledge of static timing analysis, routing tools, and potential AI applications Proven track record in data pipelines for engineering datasets: curation, augmentation, and versioning for circuit simulation outputs
• Bias for action, experimentation mindset, and ability to thrive in ambiguous, high-stakes environments with rapid prototyping

Compensation and Benefits 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 $50.00 - $65.00/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.

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.