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Open Source Internship Jobs in Madison, AL (NOW HIRING)

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer who has worked on PX4 firmware, either in school projects, open-source contributions, or internships, and is looking to expand their ...

Open Source Internship information

See Madison, AL salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do open source internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for open source internship in Madison, AL is $15.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of an open source intern and how do they collaborate with established contributors?

As an Open Source Intern, your daily tasks often include contributing code, reviewing pull requests, writing documentation, and participating in issue discussions. You will frequently collaborate with established contributors and maintainers through code reviews, chat platforms, and virtual meetings. This collaborative environment offers valuable learning opportunities and exposure to best practices in software development. Additionally, you may be assigned a mentor to guide you through project workflows, helping you build both technical and communication skills relevant to open-source communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an open source intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Open Source Intern, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Python, JavaScript, or C++) and version control systems like Git, often supported by ongoing studies in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with collaborative platforms like GitHub, issue tracking tools, and participation in open source projects are typically expected. Strong communication, self-motivation, and a willingness to learn make candidates stand out, as open source work is highly collaborative and community-driven. These skills and qualities are important because they enable effective contribution to projects, foster teamwork, and help interns adapt quickly to new technologies and workflows.

What is an open source internship?

An Open Source Internship is a program where students or early-career professionals gain hands-on experience by contributing to open source software projects. These internships are often sponsored by tech organizations, non-profits, or companies, and allow interns to work with experienced developers from around the world. Interns typically learn software development, collaboration, and version control skills, while also making meaningful contributions to real-world projects. Open source internships can be remote or in-person and are a great way to build a professional network and portfolio.

What is the difference between Open Source Internship vs Open Source Developer?

AspectOpen Source InternshipOpen Source Developer
Required CredentialsTypically students or entry-level with basic coding skillsProven experience, often with a portfolio of contributions
Work EnvironmentCollaborative, often part-time or temporaryFull-time or freelance, ongoing contributions
Employer & Industry UsageOrganizations, universities, open source communitiesTech companies, open source projects, startups

Open Source Internships are designed for students or beginners gaining experience, often part-time and educational. Open Source Developers are experienced contributors actively maintaining or creating projects. Internships serve as a stepping stone, while developers are core members of open source communities.

What are popular job titles related to Open Source Internship jobs in Madison, AL? For Open Source Internship jobs in Madison, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Open Source Internship jobs in Madison, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Open Source Internship jobs in Madison, AL are:
Infographic showing various Open Source Internship job openings in Madison, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,250 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Junior Software Engineer - PX4 Autopilot Systems

Griffon Aerospace

Madison, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Company OverviewGriffon Aerospace is a trusted aerospace solutions provider based in Madison, Alabama, specializing in the design, development, and operation of advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Since 1995, we have delivered over 12,000 unmanned air vehicles to the Department of Defense, allied nations, and commercial customers. We pride ourselves on being a lion-hearted partner, designing, building, and flying the most capable and intelligent aerial systems that give our servicemen an unfair advantage wherever they fly.Position SummaryWe are seeking a Junior Software Engineer with hands-on experience in PX4-based flight control systems to join our growing UAS development team. You will contribute to the design, integration, and validation of custom flight software for advanced unmanned aerial platforms, supporting development, simulation, and flight test operations.This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer who has worked on PX4 firmware, either in school projects, open-source contributions, or internships, and is looking to expand their skills in a real-world aerospace environment.Primary ResponsibilitiesDevelop and modify PX4 firmware for custom aircraft configurations.Integrate sensors, radios, and onboard compute modules using CAN, UART, and I2C interfaces.Support simulation-based testing using Gazebo, HITL, and SITL environments.Assist with flight test support, log analysis, and software debugging.Contribute to Git-based development pipelines, including merger requests and CI/CD builds.Collaborate across disciplines (hardware, systems, flight test) to deliver integrated UAS solutions.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.Hands-on experience with PX4 Autopilot firmware (custom module, parameter tuning, board bring-up, or sensor drivers).Proficiency in C++ and familiarity with Python for scripting.Exposure to Git and modern version control workflows.Understanding basic control systems, sensor fusion, or embedded Linux a plus.Preferred QualificationsExperience with:Custom PX4 modules or board targets.MAVLink messaging and QGroundControl.Simulation tools (Gazebo, jMAVSim).GitLab or GitHub workflows.Familiarity with RTOS concepts, DMA, or low-level peripheral debugging.Internship, capstone, or personal project involving drones or robotics.What We OfferCompetitive salary and benefits package.Mentorship and training from experienced aerospace professionals.Opportunities for career growth and project ownership.Collaborative and innovative work environment.US CITIZENSHIP REQUIREDYesABILITY TO OBTAIN SECURITY CLEARANCEYes
Job Posted by ApplicantPro