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Optimal Control Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Semiserve

Process Control Engineer

Pasadena, TX · On-site

Support daily plant operations by monitoring and optimizing process performance * Assist in ... Internship, co-op, or academic project experience in polymer or chemical manufacturing

Chick-fil-A

Summer Internship

Alliance, OH

$13 - $15/hr

Analyze usage trends and support cost-control initiatives * Help implement systems to improve ... Support daily restaurant operations and workflow optimization * Assist in analyzing processes to ...

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How much do optimal control internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for optimal control internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optimal Control Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optimal Control Intern, you need a solid background in control theory, mathematics, and dynamic systems, typically supported by coursework or a degree in engineering, applied mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like MATLAB or Python, and experience using simulation tools such as Simulink or Model Predictive Control (MPC) frameworks, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and effective communication distinguish top candidates in this role. These qualifications are critical for developing and implementing control algorithms that optimize system performance and for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during an Optimal Control Internship?

As an Optimal Control Intern, you will typically work on projects involving the design, simulation, and implementation of control algorithms for dynamic systems. Your daily responsibilities may include coding in MATLAB or Python, analyzing system models, running simulations, and collaborating closely with researchers or engineers to optimize performance criteria. Interns often participate in team meetings, contribute to documentation, and occasionally assist with experimental validation. This hands-on experience helps develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills in control engineering.

What is the difference between Optimal Control Internship vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectOptimal Control InternshipControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in engineering, mathematics, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in control engineering, electrical engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in research labs or corporate R&D departmentsFull-time engineering roles in industry, government, or research organizations
Industry UsageAcademic research, internships, early career developmentDesign, development, and implementation of control systems in various industries
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Optimal Control Internship is an entry-level position focused on gaining practical experience in control theory and algorithms, often during academic studies. In contrast, a Control Systems Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing and maintaining control systems in industry. While both roles involve control theory, internships are more educational, whereas engineers are responsible for deployment and system optimization.

What is an Optimal Control Internship?

An Optimal Control Internship is a temporary position, usually for students or recent graduates, where you work with professionals on projects related to optimal control theory and its applications. Optimal control involves designing control strategies that optimize certain performance criteria for dynamic systems, often using mathematical modeling, simulations, and algorithm development. Interns in this field typically contribute to research, coding, and analysis in industries like aerospace, robotics, or automotive engineering. This experience helps build practical skills in control engineering, programming, and problem-solving, providing valuable exposure to real-world optimization challenges.
Infographic showing various Optimal Control Internship job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Internship - Planning and Control of Mobile Manipulators

Internship - Planning and Control of Mobile Manipulators

Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Other

Medical

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

MERL is seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual to conduct research on fast/robust whole-body motion planning and control of mobile manipulators for agility, safety and precision. The ideal candidate should demonstrate solid background and track record of publications in the areas of robotic dynamics, motion planning, and control. Strong C++ and Python coding skills, knowledge of robotic software such as Pinocchio/Pybullet/MuJoCo, and optimization tools such as CasADi/PyTorch are a necessity. Ph.D. students in mechanical engineering, robotics, computer science, and electrical engineering are encouraged to apply. Start date for this internship is around summer 2026 and the duration is about 3 months.

Required Specific Experience

  • Experience with robotic software such as Pinocchio/Pybullet/MuJoCo/ROS
  • Strong C++ and Python coding skills
  • Optimization tools such as CasADi/PyTorch

The pay range for this internship position will be 6-8K per month.

Mitsubishi Electric Research Labs, Inc. "MERL" provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, MERL complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

MERL expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of MERLs employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.

Working at MERL requires full authorization to work in the U.S and access to technology, software and other information that is subject to governmental access control restrictions, due to export controls. Employment is conditioned on continued full authorization to work in the U.S and the availability of government authorization for the release of these items, which might include without limitation, obtaining an export license or other documentation. MERL may delay commencement of employment, rescind an offer of employment, terminate employment, and/or modify job responsibilities, compensation, benefits, and/or access to MERL facilities and information systems, as MERL deems appropriate, to ensure practical compliance with applicable employment law and government access control restrictions.

In addition to base pay, interns receive a relocation stipend, covered travel to and from MERL, and a monthly Charlie Card for local commuting. Interns are invited to participate in weekly social gatherings and professional development opportunities, including research talks by both internal and external speakers. Interns who meet the 90-day waiting period are also eligible for health insurance coverage. MERL provides immigration support for qualified candidates as needed. Employment is considered at-will, and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary or any other compensation program at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, departmental or Company performance, and market conditions.

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