Internship, Vehicle Dynamics Controls Engineer, Vehicle Controls (Winter/Spring 2026)

What To Expect
Consider before submitting an application:

This position is expected to start around January 2026 and continue through the Winter/Spring term (ending approximately May 2026) or continuing into Summer 2026 if available and there is an opportunity to do so. We ask for a minimum of 12 weeks, full-time 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.

About The Team
The Tesla Vehicle Motion Controls team works on design and implementation of control algorithms and software that delivers the world-class vehicle dynamics attributes Tesla vehicles are known for. The control algorithms at Tesla are strongly physics oriented, so the role requires an individual that can apply first-principles analysis and advanced control techniques for the design and implementation of novel, industry-leading vehicle motion control systems (specifically, controlling brake, suspension, steering, aero, and powertrain systems). This role will also require working cross-functionally with various groups including Chassis Hardware, Vehicle Dynamics and Modeling, Firmware, Systems Integration, and Self Driving teams. Some well-known systems our team has developed and shipped include an industry-first Steer-by-Wire and Rear-Steer system on the Cybertruck, Track Mode and torque vectoring for the Plaid Model S, Tesla’s in-house stability control (VDC), multi-motor traction control, adaptive suspension damping, trailer sway control, Self Driving actuator controls, etc.

What You'll Do

Develop control-oriented models of chassis systems for analysis and estimation

Work with Vehicle Dynamics Engineers to ensure sensing, actuation, and algorithm designs can deliver the desired vehicle dynamics attributes

Develop and implement control algorithms to maximize system capability and flexibility

Develop and implement estimation and monitoring algorithms to maximize system safety and reliability

Work with Firmware/Integration Engineers to test, debug, and calibrate the algorithms in simulation and in car

Ensure stability and performance of the algorithms using software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tools, in the vehicle at proving grounds and in the customer fleet

What You'll Bring

Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or similar with a graduation date between April 2026 – June 2027

Background in first principles linear systems analysis, state-estimation, and control design

Fundamental understanding of vehicle dynamics, specifically low and medium fidelity models to be used within a control algorithm

Basic understanding of the physics of electric drivetrains, and chassis actuators like brakes, steering, suspensions, etc.

Good proficiency with engineering development tools like Matlab/Simulink/Python

Basic proficiency with software development in C/C

Real world experience with vehicle dynamics performance characteristics, preferred

Benefits
Compensation and 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 time after 90 days of employment 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

$50.12 - $56.13/hour 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.

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