Machine Learning Research Mapping Intern - Spring 2027 - Santa Clara, CA

Nissan • Santa Clara, CA

9d • Onsite

About The Position

Nissan is seeking a research intern to contribute to autonomous vehicle mapping and perception research in Santa Clara, California. The work focuses on helping autonomous vehicles detect changes in road environments—including construction, temporary lane changes, new traffic controls, and infrastructure updates—and supporting continuously updated maps.

Working with researchers and engineers, the intern will develop and evaluate algorithms that compare vehicle sensor observations with existing map information, identify inconsistencies in road geometry and traffic infrastructure, and support automated map maintenance solutions. The position offers hands-on experience in high-definition mapping, road structure estimation, geospatial data analysis, algorithm validation, and performance evaluation. This is a 12-week program for students currently enrolled in a master's or PhD program, and the work is onsite in Santa Clara, California.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a master's or PhD degree program in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• GPA of 3.0 or above; an official or unofficial transcript is required during the application process for verification.
• Strong programming skills in C++ and/or Python.
• Experience working with large datasets and quantitative data analysis.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Self-motivation and willingness to develop technical capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research and development environment.
• Interest in autonomous vehicles, mapping technologies, perception systems, robotics, or mobility solutions.
• Ability to work onsite in Santa Clara, California.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States and able to provide proof of employment eligibility at hire.
• Successful completion of drug and background screenings in accordance with applicable Nissan policies and laws.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with autonomous driving technologies, robotics, machine learning, or computer vision.
• Familiarity with geospatial data processing, mapping systems, or localization technologies.
• Experience with algorithm development, data validation, and performance evaluation methodologies.
• Knowledge of sensor systems such as cameras, lidar, radar, or GPS/IMU technologies.
• Experience with cloud computing, large-scale data processing, or simulation environments.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and evaluate algorithms that compare vehicle sensor observations with existing map data.
• Analyze road geometry, lane configurations, traffic controls, and infrastructure changes using autonomous vehicle datasets.
• Contribute to research on detecting changes in road environments and supporting continuously updated maps.
• Collaborate with autonomous vehicle engineers and researchers on mapping and perception projects.
• Perform large-scale geospatial data analysis, algorithm validation, and performance evaluation.

Benefits

• Business Synergy Teams (ERGs) and opportunities for employee connection and collaboration.
• Professional training and development through innovation offerings, seminars, learning platforms, and leadership training.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern