Embedded Systems Intern

What to to Expect

Terranova seeks a embedded systems engineering intern for Spring 2027 to join our core engineering team. The ideal candidate has a passion for their craft and can go deep on design and analysis while maintaining a systems-level view across electrical, embedded, and controls disciplines. This person thrives in a startup environment - owning problems end-to-end, moving fast, and building machines that survive the real world.

You’ll lead projects from concept through field deployment: designing, analyzing, fabricating, and testing large-scale robotic systems that operate in the most demanding environments on Earth. Expect to be hands-on, spend long hours in the factory and in the field working alongside technicians and operators.

Key Responsibilities

• Own aspects of electrical design, firmware, controls integration, and PCB design
• Develop and debug embedded firmware in C/C++ for STM32/ESP32/RP2040 or similar
• Design and review mixed-signal PCBs using KiCad/Altium.
• Integrate sensors, radios, and power electronics with reliable, low-latency interfaces (I²C, SPI, UART, CAN).
• Characterize and optimize power budgets, EMI performance, and manufacturability.
• Bring-up, test, and validate hardware prototypes through DFM/DFT cycles.
• Support system integration and field debugging of deployed robotic platforms.
• Understand high power systems (150+ kW) and ensure safe design
• Collaborate closely with electrical, controls, and field teams to deliver integrated, field-ready systems
• Drive failure analysis, testing, and iterative improvement based on real-world data

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Hands-on prototyping skills - you enjoy working in the shop - have built hobby projects - are a maker
• LiDAR and Sensors
• Experience in electromechanical controls - VFDs
• Experience in high voltage AC power conversion systems and lithium batteries
• STM32/ESP32/RP2040
• C/C++ with FreeRTOS/Zephyr
• KiCad/Altium PCB Design
• Mixed-signal and power design
• PCB and embedded systems design skills (Altium or equivalent)
• Comfortable with the pace and intensity of early-stage startup life, including long days, 6-day workweeks, and extended field hours
• Working towards a bachelor’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field
• U.S. permanent residency required

Nice to Have Skills

• CAD proficiency (OnShape, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or NX)
• Familiarity with C++, Python, or similar for controls or simulation
• Proven project management capabilities with multiple concurrent workstreams
• Experience with compliance, HAZOP, and FMEA tools for machine safety

Compensation and Timeline

• $25-35/hr + relocation + company perks
• Spring Internship from January-May depending on your school schedule