Hardware Test Intern (Spring 2027)
About The Position
The Hardware Test Intern will work with Zipline’s Hardware Test Team, which supports multiple hardware engineering domains and ensures the performance, reliability, and safety of systems used in delivery drones. The team develops and executes tests for avionics, power systems, mechanical assemblies, sensors, and other components, validating integrated hardware and software under real-world and simulated conditions. The intern will develop a deep understanding of the system under test, which may include embedded electronics, avionics, sensing systems, power distribution, mechanical actuation, or subsystem integrations. Work may involve designing and building mechatronic test systems and developing automation scripts to coordinate sensors, actuators, and instrumentation while considering operator safety. The intern will own a test asset throughout its lifecycle, from concept and system definition through implementation, data collection, analysis, troubleshooting, and recommendations that inform engineering decisions. This is a full-time, in-person internship at Zipline’s South San Francisco or Dallas office. The Spring 2027 internship runs from January through April or May. The hourly rate is $40. Additional benefits may include relocation support, a housing stipend, overtime pay, paid sick time, and other benefits where applicable and subject to local requirements.
Requirements
- Ability to interpret datasheets and write basic drivers for new components.
- Understanding of fundamental electrical and/or mechanical engineering principles.
- Experience working with common electrical test equipment, such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and power supplies.
Nice To Haves
- Experience programming in Python.
- Foundational knowledge of embedded C.
- Experience developing software that interfaces directly with hardware and instrumentation.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define component and tester requirements.
- Validate the design and assembly of components ranging from circuit boards to large mechanical or electromechanical assemblies.
- Streamline testing, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
- Develop deep expertise in components or systems under test and understand their expected behavior under a variety of operating conditions.
- Own a test asset through its lifecycle, from planning and implementation through system validation, troubleshooting, and analysis of results.
Benefits
- Additional benefits may include relocation support, a housing stipend, overtime pay, and paid sick time, where applicable and subject to local requirements.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
