Summer 2026 Autonomy & Robotics Engineering Intern

Worker Type

Job Description

 

Our Summer Internship Program is meticulously designed to provide students with an immersive and dynamic experience within our industry, offering a taste of what it's like to be part of our professional team. We strive to simulate a full-time job, enabling our interns to work hands-on with cutting-edge technology, contribute to meaningful projects, build strong relationships with coworkers, and develop strategic problem-solving skills. Our program is highly selective, hosting only a handful of interns each year, ensuring personalized attention and ample opportunities to work closely with AV team members. 

We are hiring for various roles and locations throughout the U.S. During the interview process, we will discuss specific details regarding the team and location.

Summary

As an Autonomy & Robotics Engineering Intern, you will work alongside a team of skilled engineers to support the development of autonomous behaviors, machine perception, and robotic control systems for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and other advanced platforms. You’ll gain experience in algorithm development, simulation, and integration on real hardware in a fast-paced, collaborative R&D environment.

This internship provides a hands-on opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to cutting-edge autonomy applications, with mentorship and support from senior engineers.

Position Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, implementation, and testing of algorithms related to:
  • Computer vision, object tracking, and target detection
  • Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) integrated with visual sensors
  • State estimation using inertial and visual data
  • Autonomous behavior modeling (e.g., finite-state machines, behavior trees)
  • Path planning and multi-vehicle coordination
• Support the development and debugging of autonomy software on simulation platforms and real hardware
• Collaborate with teammates on testing, data collection, and experimental design
• Participate in code reviews and integration efforts across multidisciplinary teams
• Document and present findings in internal reports or presentations
• Perform other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical field
• Coursework or project experience in areas such as robotics, autonomy, or computer vision
• Proficiency in C/C++ (modern standards like C++11 or later preferred)
• Familiarity with Python and/or MATLAB for data analysis or prototyping
• Interest in working with UAS, robotics, or autonomous systems
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Willingness to learn, collaborate, and work in a hands-on environment

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required but a Plus)

• Experience with Robot Operating System (ROS)
• Familiarity with:
  • Vision-based perception (e.g., feature tracking, template matching, visual odometry)
  • Trajectory planning, GNC algorithms, or control systems
  • Embedded systems or low size, weight, and power (SWaP) devices
• Exposure to simulation tools, real-time systems, or experimental robotics
• Involvement in robotics competitions, clubs, or research projects

Additional Competencies

• Team-oriented mindset with strong collaboration skills
• Comfortable asking questions and taking initiative to solve problems
• Thrives in a dynamic, deadline-driven R&D environment
• Demonstrates accountability and a commitment to continuous learning
• Able to clearly communicate technical information to diverse audiences

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office and R&D lab environment (Constant)
• Required to sit, stand, and use a computer for long periods (Frequent)
• Occasional hands-on work with robotic systems, test setups, and hardware integration

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits:  AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.  For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit:  http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply.  NO agencies please.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC.

Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty – and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems.  Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR