New

Internship, Simulation Software Engineer, Optimus (Summer 2026)

Tesla Motors, Inc.
100,000 - 150,000 USD
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, California, Palo Alto
Dec 10, 2025
What to Expect Consider before submitting an application: This position is expected to start May 2026 and continue through summer term (ending approximately August 2026 or later, if available). We ask for a minimum of 12 weeks, full-time (40 hours/week) and on-site, for most internships. Our internship program is for students who are actively enrolled in an academic program.Recent graduates seeking employment after graduation and not returning to school should apply for full-time positions, not internships. As a member of Tesla's Optimus Simulation team, you will be in a unique position to accelerate the pace at which the Optimus Autonomy stack improves over time.This is done by providing realistic simulation environments for evaluation and Machine learning. We are looking for passionate individuals to help build worlds models and neural based simulators to help bridge sim to real gaps. What You'll Do Work closely with Sim Engineers and AI Engineers to iterate and improve neural based simulations Develop necessary data pipelines and tools necessary for model training and deployment Keep up to date with the latest research/technologies in the field of neural simulation and rendering What You'll Bring Experience in training diffusion, auto regressive ML models Background training world models or strong understanding of physics engines highly preferred Excellent software development skills in Python and Pytorch Strong mathematical skills including linear algebra and numerical methods Comfortable developing with Linux & Git Pursuing an advanced degreein a related field of study with a graduation date between December 2026- August 2027 Compensation and Benefits Benefits As a full-time Tesla Intern, you will be eligible for: Aetna PPO and HSA plans > 2 medical plan options with $0 payroll deduction Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans. Both have an option with a $0 payroll contribution Company Paid (Health Savings Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Medical Plan with HSA Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) 401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits Company Paid Basic Life, AD&D, and short-term disability insurance Employee Assistance Program Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions), and Paid Holidays Back-up childcare and parenting support resources Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance Commuter benefits Employee discounts and perks program Expected Compensation $100,000 - $150,000/annual salary + benefits Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.