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Internship Autonomous Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Vertex Sigma Software

Systems Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

You will work closely with the autonomy system architects to synthesize the needs of the engineering, product, and safety teams to ensure our autonomous vehicles can operate safely and reliably in a ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Systems Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

You will work closely with the autonomy system architects to synthesize the needs of the engineering, product, and safety teams to ensure our autonomous vehicles can operate safely and reliably in a ...

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Internship Autonomous Systems Engineer information

What are Internship Autonomous Systems Engineers?

Internship Autonomous Systems Engineers are students or recent graduates who work temporarily with a company to gain hands-on experience in designing, developing, and testing autonomous systems, such as self-driving vehicles or robotics. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with software development, data analysis, simulation, and integration of sensors and control systems. This internship provides practical exposure to cutting-edge technologies and helps interns develop technical and problem-solving skills relevant to autonomous systems engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Autonomous Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Autonomous Systems Engineer, you need a solid foundation in robotics, control systems, programming (often Python/C++), and a relevant engineering or computer science background. Familiarity with tools such as ROS (Robot Operating System), simulation platforms (like Gazebo), and version control systems (e.g., Git) is highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help interns excel in collaborative, fast-paced engineering environments. These competencies are crucial for effectively contributing to the development and testing of autonomous technologies while learning from experienced professionals.

What types of projects and technologies can I expect to work with as an Autonomous Systems Engineer intern?

As an Autonomous Systems Engineer intern, you will typically engage in hands-on projects involving robotics, sensor integration, computer vision, and machine learning algorithms. You may contribute to developing, testing, and optimizing autonomous navigation systems or simulation environments. Interns often collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams of software, hardware, and systems engineers, gaining exposure to real-time problem-solving and rapid prototyping. This experience provides valuable insight into industry-standard tools and practices, setting a strong foundation for a career in autonomous systems.

What is the difference between Internship Autonomous Systems Engineer vs Internship Robotics Engineer?

AspectInternship Autonomous Systems EngineerInternship Robotics Engineer
CredentialsRelevant coursework, basic certifications in autonomous systems or roboticsSimilar credentials, often with focus on robotics or control systems
Work EnvironmentAutonomous vehicle labs, research centers, tech companiesRobotics labs, manufacturing facilities, research institutions
Industry UsageAutonomous vehicle development, aerospace, defenseManufacturing, service robots, research projects

Both roles involve working with cutting-edge technology, but the Internship Autonomous Systems Engineer focuses on autonomous vehicle and system integration, while the Internship Robotics Engineer emphasizes robot design and control systems. The choice depends on your specific interest in autonomous navigation versus robotic hardware development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
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Internship Autonomous Systems Engineer jobs near you

Forward Deployed Autonomous Systems Engineer

Mach Industries

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

About Mach Industries
Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.
Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.
The Role
Mach Industries is seeking a Forward Deployed Autonomous Systems Engineer to operate, test, and iterate on autonomous aerial platforms in real-world environments. This is not a traditional aviation or pilot role. Success in this position is defined by technical ownership, system learning, and rapid iteration-not flight hours or formal aviation credentials.
You will work hands-on with evolving prototype systems, frequently in the field, embedded with engineering teams to identify failures, validate fixes, and push systems toward operational readiness. This role sits at the boundary between engineering and operations and requires comfort with ambiguity, incomplete systems, and fast feedback loops. This role partners with Flight Test Engineers to translate test objectives and measures of performance into executable system behavior.
Key Responsibilities
  • Execute flight and ground testing of developmental and production autonomous aerial systems in controlled and field environments.
  • Collaborate closely with engineering teams to plan and execute test activities, identify failures, and drive system improvements.
  • Diagnose and resolve system-level issues spanning hardware, software, communications, and autonomy during testing.
  • Configure, modify, and validate flight control software, autonomy behaviors, and system parameters in support of test objectives.
  • Assess system readiness through pre-flight, post-flight, and health checks, and determine go/no-go conditions for testing.
  • Collect, analyze, and communicate telemetry, logs, and performance data to inform rapid design iteration.
  • Integrate and evaluate new payloads, sensors, and system configurations.
  • Support frequent field testing and demonstration events, operating in austere environments with significant travel.
  • Develop and refine test procedures, safety practices, and operational documentation for experimental systems.
  • Close the loop between field testing and manufacturing by identifying build, assembly, and reliability issues and communicating actionable feedback to manufacturing engineers and technicians.

Required Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience working with open-source flight control systems such as PX4, Ardupilot, or similar architectures, including configuration and tuning.
  • Experience operating and evaluating prototype or non-certified autonomous systems in test or field environments.
  • Ability to diagnose and resolve system-level issues spanning hardware, software, networking, and autonomy.
  • Familiarity with Linux-based systems, command-line tools, and log/telemetry analysis.
  • Strong ability to learn unfamiliar systems quickly through documentation, experimentation, and collaboration.
  • Willingness to support irregular schedules driven by test readiness, flight windows, and field constraints.
  • Willingness to travel more than 50% of the time.
  • Clear communication skills and disciplined attention to safety in experimental environments.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience working directly with engineers to validate fixes and implement rapid design changes in the field.
  • 2+ years of experience operating or testing autonomous systems in defense, robotics, or advanced commercial environments.
  • Active FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Background in robotics, autonomy, aerospace systems, or related technical disciplines.
  • Experience supporting field testing at ranges or remote test sites.
  • Experience providing test-driven feedback to manufacturing or production teams on prototype or early-production hardware.

Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!

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