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Lightspeed Forward Deployed Engineer Internship (Summer 2027)
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Description
- We are seeking a motivated and talented Forward Deployed Engineer Intern to work on real-world problems that contribute directly to the development of our autonomous surface vessels
- You will gain hands-on experience in software development, testing, and integration, and work alongside experienced engineers to tackle complex challenges in autonomy, sensor fusion, and real-time processing
- This role blends software development, field deployment, and problem-solving to ensure our technology delivers real mission impac
- Design, implement, and test software components for autonomous systems, including navigation algorithms, sensor integration, and communication protocols
- Collaborate with the team to develop and optimize algorithms for real-time decision-making, path planning, and object detection
- Assist in the development of testing frameworks and participate in hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing to validate software performance in simulated and real-world environments
- Troubleshoot and resolve software, hardware, and networking issues that arise during deployments
- Contribute to the creation of technical documentation, including design specifications, user manuals, and test plans
- Work closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers, to ensure seamless integration of software with hardware components
- This internship is ideal for students pursuing computer science, software engineering, electrical and computer engineering, or a related field, and eager to make an impact on the front line of maritime autonomy
- All interns will be supported and mentored by experienced Forward Deployed Engineers
- Occasional standing and walking within the office
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or a related field
- Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)
- Programming skills in Python, C++, Typescript, Javascript, or Rust
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
- Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment
- This role requires full-time in office presence (40 hours/week) based at our headquarters in Austin, TX, from May through August 2027
- Willingness to travel, spending time in the field testing and improving ASV systems in real-world maritime settings
- Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies
- Basic understanding of robotics principles, autonomous systems, and sensor technologies
