Summer 2026 Autonomy & Robotics Engineering Intern at AeroVironment

Simi Valley, California, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

InternshipExperience Level

InternshipJob Type

UnknownVisa

Aerospace, RoboticsIndustries

Requirements

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
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 compliance (access to regulated information)

Responsibilities

Assist in the design, implementation, and testing of algorithms related to computer vision, object tracking, and target detection
Assist in the design, implementation, and testing of algorithms related to Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) integrated with visual sensors
Assist in the design, implementation, and testing of algorithms related to state estimation using inertial and visual data
Assist in the design, implementation, and testing of algorithms related to autonomous behavior modeling (e.g., finite-state machines, behavior trees)
Assist in the design, implementation, and testing of algorithms related to 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

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Computer VisionObject TrackingTarget DetectionGNCState EstimationFinite-State MachinesBehavior TreesPath PlanningMulti-Vehicle CoordinationSimulationAlgorithm DevelopmentRobotic Control

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the required skills for the Autonomy & Robotics Engineering Intern position?

Candidates must be currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or related fields, with coursework in robotics, autonomy, or computer vision. Required skills include proficiency in C/C++ (modern standards preferred), familiarity with Python and/or MATLAB, and strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Is this internship remote or does it require working at a specific location?

The internship involves various roles and locations throughout the U.S., with specific team and location details discussed during the interview process.

What does a typical day look like for this intern?

Interns will assist in designing, implementing, and testing algorithms for computer vision, GNC, state estimation, and autonomous behaviors, support software development on simulation and hardware, collaborate on testing, participate in code reviews, and document findings.

What is the company culture like for interns at AeroVironment?

The highly selective program hosts only a handful of interns for personalized attention, simulating a full-time job in a fast-paced, collaborative R&D environment with hands-on work, mentorship from senior engineers, and opportunities to build relationships.

What preferred qualifications can make my application stand out?

Experience with Robot Operating System (ROS) and familiarity with vision-based perception techniques like feature tracking or template matching are preferred but not required.

AeroVironment

Develops autonomous robotic systems for defense

About AeroVironment

AeroVironment develops and sells autonomous robotic systems that can perform various missions without human intervention. These systems are designed to enhance operational efficiency, reduce risks to personnel, and provide valuable data to users. The company primarily serves government agencies, defense organizations, and commercial clients, focusing on the defense and aerospace sectors. AeroVironment stands out from its competitors by emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility in its business practices, which not only helps the environment but also builds loyalty among employees and customers. The company's goal is to lead the market in intelligent robotic systems while promoting sustainable practices and creating new business opportunities.

Monrovia, CaliforniaHeadquarters

1971Year Founded

$20.3MTotal Funding

IPOCompany Stage

Robotics & Automation, Aerospace, DefenseIndustries

501-1,000Employees