Deep Learning Engineer Internship

Company Description

Deca Defense specializes in leveraging artificial intelligence specifically Deep Neural networks to optimize combat hardware for defense applications. Founded by combat veterans with rich engineering background in AI and Deep Learning, the organization is committed to enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness for ground forces. Deca Defense focuses on integrating Deep learning solutions into existing defense systems while addressing critical Size, Weight, and Power constraints. The company is at the forefront of rigorous model analysis, development of AI datasets for combat scenarios, and rapid model deployment from conceptualization to field testing.

Role Description

Deep Learning Engineer Intern – Defense AI (Remote)

This is a remote internship offering hands-on exposure to mission-critical AI development for defense applications. Interns will work directly with engineers and veterans to design, train, optimize, and deploy deep learning models intended for real-world operational use.

You will contribute to model development pipelines, dataset curation, and deployment workflows targeting edge and embedded hardware platforms. This role is execution-focused and designed for candidates who want practical experience building AI systems that must perform under strict operational constraints.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and train deep learning models using frameworks such as PyTorch.
• Process, curate, and augment large-scale datasets relevant to defense and combat scenarios.
• Optimize and fine-tune models for performance, latency, and efficiency under SWaP constraints.
• Support deployment of trained models onto edge-based and embedded hardware platforms.
• Conduct performance evaluation, benchmarking, and failure analysis of AI systems.
• Collaborate with engineers to integrate AI models into existing hardware and software stacks.
• Document model behavior, datasets, and experimental results to support rapid iteration and knowledge transfer.
• Assist with research into model compression, quantization, and deployment optimization techniques.

Qualifications

• Fundamental computer science background with the ability to write, read, and debug code.
• Proficiency in Python or demonstrated ability to learn and apply it quickly.
• Basic understanding of data structures, algorithms, and software development fundamentals.
• Familiarity with machine learning or deep learning concepts (coursework, projects, or self-study).
• Exposure to PyTorch, TensorFlow, or similar frameworks is a plus but not required.
• Experience working with data (cleaning, labeling, preprocessing) is beneficial.
• Comfort working in a Linux-based development environment.
• Familiarity with Git or version control concepts.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn in a fast-paced, engineering-driven environment.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting while communicating effectively with the team.
• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.

Why Join Deca defense?

• Work on real defense AI systems, not academic or simulated projects.
• Gain experience deploying models beyond the lab and into constrained environments.
• Collaborate with engineers and veterans with operational and technical backgrounds.
• Contribute to systems with tangible mission impact.
• Potential pathway to future full-time roles based on performance and project needs.