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Hardware Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hardware Systems Engineering

Austin, TX · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Appleʼs fully-integrated hardware and software provide unique opportunities to deliver amazing ... Prior internship(s), group or personal project exposure, TA and/or work experience. This posting is ...

Hardware Systems Engineering

Austin, TX

$122K - $161K/yr

HARDWARE Hardware Engineering and Product RF Design Engineers support electrical, system design ... Prior internship(s), group or personal project exposure, TA and/or work experience. This posting is ...

Hardware Systems Engineering

Austin, TX

$122K - $161K/yr

HARDWARE Hardware Engineering and Product RF Design Engineers support electrical, system design ... Prior internship(s), group or personal project exposure, TA and/or work experience. This posting is ...

Principal Hardware Engineer, Optics

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $173K/yr

The ideal candidate will have a foundational understanding of electrical hardware design and ... every stage - from internship to retirement and through life's most important moments. Our ...

... Internship, academic, or project-based experience with computer hardware or circuit boards is preferred. • Basic lab experience with hardware debugging tools is a plus. • Prolonged periods of ...

Hardware Tools Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$225K - $445K/yr

About the Team OpenAI's Hardware organization develops AI-native silicon and system-level solutions ... Demonstrated ability to build and maintain software (projects, internships, research, open source ...

Staff Hardware Engineer, Optics

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $173K/yr

Perform hands-on testing and debugging of hardware components using lab equipment such as ... every stage - from internship to retirement and through life's most important moments. Our ...

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Hardware Internship information

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How much do hardware internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware internship in the United States is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a hardware internship?

As a hardware intern, you can expect to work on hands-on projects such as circuit design, PCB layout, hardware testing, and prototyping under the guidance of experienced engineers. You'll often assist with debugging hardware issues, preparing technical documentation, and collaborating with software and mechanical teams to integrate and validate systems. Interns may also participate in team meetings and present progress updates, providing valuable exposure to the full product development lifecycle. This role offers a great opportunity to build practical skills, network with professionals, and gain insight into potential career paths in hardware engineering.

What is the difference between Hardware Internship vs Hardware Engineer?

AspectHardware InternshipHardware Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; professional certifications are a plus
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, temporary, or part-time roles often within tech companies, startups, or manufacturing firmsFull-time, permanent roles involving design, development, testing, and troubleshooting hardware systems
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by students and companies for training and talent scouting in electronics and hardware sectorsUsed by companies for product development, R&D, and hardware system management

In summary, a Hardware Internship is an entry-level, temporary position aimed at gaining practical experience, while a Hardware Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing and developing hardware systems. Internships often serve as a stepping stone toward a career as a Hardware Engineer.

What is a hardware internship?

A hardware internship is a temporary, hands-on work experience offered to students or recent graduates interested in computer hardware, electronics, or related engineering fields. Interns typically assist with designing, testing, assembling, and troubleshooting electronic components or systems under the supervision of experienced engineers. This type of internship provides valuable practical skills, industry exposure, and insight into real-world hardware development processes, helping interns build their resumes and prepare for full-time roles in hardware engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hardware Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hardware Intern, you typically need a background in electrical or computer engineering, strong analytical skills, and foundational knowledge of circuit design and hardware troubleshooting. Familiarity with CAD tools, PCB design software, and lab equipment such as oscilloscopes and multimeters is often required. Attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help interns contribute to team projects. These skills and qualities are important because they enable interns to support hardware development processes efficiently and grow in a technical, collaborative environment.
More about Hardware Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Hardware Internship jobs? Cities with the most Hardware Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hardware jobs? The most popular types of Hardware jobs are:
What states have the most Hardware Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Hardware Internship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hardware Internship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Internship, and 33% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,304 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Intern - Hardware / Embedded Security Engineer

Intern - Hardware / Embedded Security Engineer

Itron, Inc.

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago


Itron rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Itron is innovating new ways for utilities and cities to manage energy and water. We create a more resourceful world to protect essential resources for today and tomorrow. Join us.
We're seeking a motivated intern who is excited to learn and contribute in the areas of hardware security and embedded systems. This internship is a hands-on, lab-based learning and evaluation program focused on hardware-level analysis, firmware interaction, and embedded device security validation. You'll work collaboratively with a Hardware Security team in a technology environment supporting solutions used in the Utilities & Energy sector, where reliability, safety, and customer trust are essential.
Duration: Part-time (20 hours/week) for approximately 3 months, with potential for extension and possible full-time conversion based on performance and business need.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Work hands-on with embedded devices in a lab setting to support customer-centric security outcomes for products and systems used in Utilities & Energy environments.
  • Interact with microcontroller-based systems using common hardware debugging interfaces such as JTAG, SWD, and UART, with an authentic learning mindset and attention to detail.
  • Analyze embedded communication interfaces (e.g., SPI, I2C, UART) to better understand system behavior, data flow, and potential security considerations.
  • Assist with firmware workflows including extraction, flashing, and low-level debugging to support agile iteration and reproducible lab practices.
  • Support hardware-assisted testing and validation activities, documenting steps and outcomes so results are clear, accountable, and shareable across the team.
  • Contribute to firmware analysis and security assessment, including basic static and dynamic analysis to help identify vulnerabilities, insecure coding patterns, and potential attack surfaces.
  • Participate in hardware security testing (e.g., evaluating device interfaces and physical attack surfaces) using practical lab techniques aligned to responsible testing standards.
  • Support validation of secure boot and hardware root of trust concepts, helping ensure solutions are resilient and trustworthy for customers.
  • Assist with threat modeling activities for embedded devices, collaborating with teammates to capture risks, assumptions, and recommended mitigations.
  • Document findings and remediation recommendations in a clear, inclusive, and actionable format, contributing to innovative improvements and continuous learning.

Required Skills & Experience
  • Currently enrolled in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related program with an embedded and/or hardware focus (or equivalent academic experience).
  • Foundational understanding of microcontrollers and embedded systems concepts.
  • Familiarity with C/C++ programming and basic software engineering practices.
  • Interest in firmware, hardware interaction, and low-level system behavior, with a curiosity-driven approach to learning.
  • Comfort working with lab equipment and hands-on setups, including careful handling and safe lab practices.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, with a commitment to being accountable, agile, and supportive of team goals.
  • Ability to communicate progress and findings clearly (written and verbal) in a way that supports shared understanding and customer-focused outcomes.

Preferred Skills & Experience
  • Experience (coursework, projects, labs, or internships) with debugging interfaces such as JTAG, SWD, and UART.
  • Exposure to embedded development or firmware-based projects (academic, personal, or community).
  • Familiarity with firmware analysis concepts and/or secure coding practices.
  • Experience using lab tools such as logic analyzers and oscilloscopes.
  • Basic understanding of cybersecurity principles, particularly as they relate to embedded devices and product security.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and contribute ideas that improve processes or outcomes (innovative, team-oriented mindset).

Travel: 0-10%
Physical Demands
This is a typical office job, with no special physical requirements or unusual work environment.
This is a safety sensitive role.
#LI-LC1
Itron is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce and providing an authentic workplace experience for all employees. If you are excited about this role but your past experiences don't perfectly align with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway. In the end, you may be just who we are looking for!
The successful candidate's starting wage will be determined based on permissible, non-discriminatory factors such as skills and experience.
Itron is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you require an accommodation to apply, please contact a recruiting representative at 1-800-635-5461 or email Accessibility@itron.com.
Itron is transforming how the world manages energy, water and city services. Our trusted intelligent infrastructure solutions help utilities and cities improve efficiency, build resilience and deliver safe, reliable and affordable service. With edge intelligence, we connect people, data insights and devices so communities can better manage the essential resources they rely on to live. Join us as we create a more resourceful world: www.itron.com

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