Internship, Powertrain, Manufacturing Automation Controls Engineering (Fall 2026)

What to Expect

Consider before submitting an application:

This position is expected to start August or September 2026 and continue through fall term (ending approximately December 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.

International Students: If your work authorization is through CPT, please consult your school on your ability to work 40 hours per week before applying. You must be able to work 40 hours per week on-site. Many students will be limited to part-time during the academic year.

Internship Program at Tesla

The Internship Recruiting Team is driven by the passion to recognize and develop emerging talent. Our year-round program places the best students in positions where they will grow technically, professionally, and personally through their experience working closely with their Manager, Mentor, and team. We provide an experience that allows the intern to experience life at Tesla by including them in projects that are critical to their team’s success.

Tesla’s key technological advantage lies in its powertrain products: battery packs, drive units, and power electronics and energy products (Superchargers, Powerwalls, Megapacks).

The Powertrain Manufacturing Controls team delivers new manufacturing lines to produce vehicle and energy products at Tesla factories. As an intern, you will work under the guidance of a controls engineer to design and implement machine program functionality on these lines. Join our team to build the machines producing world-leading products and accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.

Locations: Reno, Nevada, Fremont, California, Austin, Texas

What You'll Do

• Program PLCs using ladder logic and structured text (Siemens and Beckhoff)
• Create intuitive operator touchscreen interfaces (WinCC, Ignition, TwinCAT HMI)
• Design industrial electrical panels, field wiring and machine safety circuits (ePLAN, AutoCAD)
• Program machinery for material pick-and-place, fastening, dispensing, conveyance, etc.
• Interface machinery with MES and reports results to quality databases
• Program vision cameras for inspection and 2D/3D machinery guidance (Cognex, Keyence)
• Program and interface to industrial 6-axis robots (Fanuc, Kuka)

What You'll Bring

• Currently pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science or a related field
• Programming proficiency in PLC or industrial controllers (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Beckhoff) using ladder logic and structured text, or similar academic platforms (Raspberry Pi, Arduino) in lieu
• Hands-on experience wiring, assembling, troubleshooting and fixing electro-mechanical devices
• Familiar with common hand and diagnostic tools (e.g., multimeters)
• Exemplary verbal and written communication skills
• Willing to work extended hours as necessary

Compensation and Benefits

Benefits

• Medical plans > 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 (90 day waiting period)
• 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

Equal Opportunity Employer

Tesla is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Tesla is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.