Internship, Associate System Test Engineer, Energy Engineering (Winter/Spring 2026)

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. entry level candidates 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.
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 are dedicated to providing 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 Energy is looking for an Associate Test Engineer who is passionate about our mission to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy and is ready to help us push the boundaries of continuous integration software, firmware, and hardware testing. You will support the system test team by owning the execution of manual and automated test sequences associated with core feature functionality, performance, scalability, reliability, regression, system configuration, and security. Tests will encompass all aspects of performance pertaining to off-board Level 1-3 electric vehicle charging and will offer broad exposure to cutting edge EVSE technology. This role will serve to enable faster and more efficient firmware and software development to quickly deliver new features and bug fixes to our customers.
Location: Palo Alto, CA

Responsibilities

• Execute automated and manual tests for Tesla Energy Off-Board Charging Products including Supercharger, Wall Connector, Mobile Connector, and emerging products
• Perform system validation of current and next generation Tesla Energy Charging Systems
• Identify and report abnormal behavior at the system level and work with Engineering teams on full resolution of any issues
• Support bring-up of next generation mechanical/electrical test setups to replicate real-life field conditions and validate the efficacy of the new automated test equipment
• Work closely with Engineering teams to enumerate/design test cases that represent all customer use cases and edge cases and ensure full end-to-end test coverage on products
• Own delivery of test result documentation and escalation when necessary
• Monitor, identify and escalate issues that arise within the automated test pipeline to ensure prompt resolution and restoration of functionality
• Investigate failures of automated test executions and report out test failure rates

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science or a related field
• Proficiency with Python preferred (C is desirable as well)
• Must be comfortable with hands-on lab work (including the potential use of oscilloscopes, CAN tools, soldering irons, etc. as needed to support testing)
• Must be very comfortable using computers (Windows is required, Linux is preferred)
• Experience in system testing preferred
• Exceptional analytical problem-solving skills, able to identify and surface issues within complex systems
• Effective communicator and excellent attention to detail
• Ability to lift 40 pounds, work indoors or outdoors, and stand for extended periods of time
• Hands-on experience with electrical, automotive, or computer repair strongly desired

Compensation and Benefits
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
$20.00 - $50.00 + benefitsPay 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.