SUMMER 2026 INTERNSHIP: Software Engineer

About Darkhive, LLC 

Darkhive is making robotics accessible. Established in 2021, we are focused on the application of robotics in the public safety and defense communities. Our approach in accessibility is built on three pillars: low-cost, ease-of-use, and open interface design.   

With our autonomy software stack, military and public safety users intuitively interact with our robotics platforms which enable them to understand their environment and make decisions when it matters most.  Our palm-sized, autonomous drone demonstrates the capabilities of our integrated software and hardware solutions. 

Darkhive is a growing group of U.S. Special Operations veterans, aerospace engineers, robotics perception experts, DevSecOps, defense technology executives, and superb support staff-above all, we are mission first team.  We believe that the U.S. and our allies around the world deserve high-quality, affordable tools that keep them safe when each second counts.  

If you are a free-thinking problem solver who is looking for a highly collaborative and innovative environment, apply with Darkhive today! 

The Software Engineer Intern role:

We are seeking a Software Engineering Intern to help develop and optimize the software that powers our drone systems. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual who is eager to gain hands-on experience working with drone technologies and contributing to real-world projects. 

Responsibilities: 

• Assist in the development of software for drone systems, including flight control, navigation, and data processing 

• Write, test, and debug code for real-time systems and embedded software 

• Contribute to software design and architecture discussions, focusing on optimizing performance and scalability 

• Collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components 

• Participate in code reviews, troubleshooting, and debugging to resolve software issues 

• Document software features, design decisions, and development progress 

The Software Engineering Intern will work alongside our experienced software team during Summer 2026. This role is a full-time, non-exempt, non-supervisory role reporting to one of Darkhive's Software experts. Hybrid work (part remote/part at Darkhive HQ) is preferred.
This position pays $28/hour for approximately 10-12 weeks.

Qualifications you bring:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field 

• Sophomore or junior status preferred 

• Strong interest in software development and drone technology 

• Experience with programming languages such as C/C++, Python, or similar 

• Familiarity with software development tools like Git, IDEs (e.g. VS Code or IntelliJ), and debugging tools 

• Basic understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software design principles 

• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a passion for learning 

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills 

• U.S. Citizenship is required as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance 

• Ability to travel 1-2 weeks to our headquarters in San Antonio 

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with embedded systems or real-time programming 

• Familiarity with drone technologies, robotics, or flight control systems 

• Experience with mobile app development on Android 

• Familiarity with containerization and technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes 

Physical and/or Mental Requirements 

• Ability to sit and/or stand for periods of time. 

• Ability to use a keyboard, mouse, and other equipment with or without accommodations. 

• Ability to maintain awareness during business hours. 

• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication and good command of the English language. 

• Learns and memorizes routine tasks. 

• Reasonable accommodations will be provided to any person with a disability to be able to perform the essential job functions of this position. 

• Darkhive retains the right to change or assign other duties as required for this position.  

Selection Process: 

• Hiring team reviews applications 

• 30-minute phone screen with the hiring manager 

• Candidate conducts product sales pitch 

• Panel Interview 

• In-person or video Final Interview 

Darkhive offers this intern excellent mentorship and an environment to enhance and hone skills!

Darkhive is an equal-opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant because of race, color, gender (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.