2027 Summer Intern, BS/MS, Embedded, Software Engineer
About this role
Bridging the gap between code and hardware, this intern will tackle the challenge of scaling safety-critical software running at the edge of autonomous vehicles. The Embedded Software Engineering team builds the foundational abstractions and business logic that interface directly with steering, braking, propulsion, and vehicle sensors under stringent real-time constraints. Interns in this group will actively develop high-reliability on-vehicle firmware and off-vehicle simulation tooling, contributing directly to the bring-up and validation of next-generation compute platforms.
Operating in a hybrid onsite environment located in Mountain View, CA, the chosen candidate will collaborate closely with experienced systems engineers to analyze telemetry, debug hardware-software interfaces, and write robust unit tests. Individuals who thrive in ambiguous environments, possess a continuous learning mindset, and demonstrate a strong foundation in C++ will find this internship both demanding and deeply impactful.
What you will do
- Develop high-quality vertically-integrated C++ software systems, including on-vehicle firmware and off-vehicle simulation tooling at the edge of the Waymo driver.
- Contribute directly to the bring-up, validation, and debugging of next-generation compute platforms, peripheral drivers, and hardware-software interfaces for new vehicle platforms.
- Write robust unit tests and Software-in-the-Loop simulation fixtures to validate edge-case handling, system robustness, and fault containment.
- Analyze field data logs, vehicle telemetry, and simulation results to identify root causes and improve firmware performance.
- Participate in cross-functional engineering workflows, design discussions, and code reviews alongside experienced embedded and systems engineers.
What you need
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or a related technical field.
- Strong programming foundation in C or C++, with a solid understanding of data structures, pointers, and memory management.
- High curiosity, continuous learning mindset, and enthusiasm to explore unfamiliar hardware architectures, tools, and codebases.
- Demonstrated problem-solving ability, debugging skills, and comfort navigating ambiguity when working with evolving platforms or prototypes.
- Familiarity with Linux development environments, command-line tools, and version control systems such as Git.
Nice to have
- Hands-on experience developing software for microcontrollers, bare-metal environments, or RTOS with resource-constrained execution.
- Practical experience with board bring-up, hardware-software integration, and lab instrumentation like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers.
- Experience with C++ unit testing frameworks like Google Test and test-driven development methodologies.
- Active involvement in collegiate engineering teams or open-source projects demonstrating modern C++ software craftsmanship.
- Proficiency in Python for test automation, telemetry data analysis, or build scripting.
Benefits
- Generous benefits programs subject to eligibility requirements
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the work policy for this internship?
This will be a hybrid onsite internship position based in Mountain View, CA. Resumes are accepted on a rolling basis until the role is filled.
What is the expected compensation for this role?
The expected hourly rate is $60 for Bachelors students and $70 for Masters students. Interns are also eligible to participate in the company's generous benefits programs.
What technologies and tools will I work with?
You will develop vertically-integrated C++ software systems, write unit tests using frameworks like gTest, and work within Linux development environments. Preferred skills also include Python for scripting, RTOS or bare-metal environments, and lab hardware instrumentation.
How can I apply for multiple roles at Waymo?
To be in consideration for multiple roles, you will need to apply to each one individually. Candidates are advised to apply to the top 3 roles they are interested in.