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

Description:
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.

Responsibilities:
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

Requirements:
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 & 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 + 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.