Autonomy Engineer Intern, 2027

First Roles; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 96,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation time

Sick leave

Holiday pay

401K savings plan

Job summary

Skydio is seeking an Autonomy Engineer Intern to contribute to the core computer vision and autonomy stack for our drone platform in San Mateo, California. You will work closely with engineers and researchers, taking ownership of projects that directly improve autonomous flight capabilities.

Ideal candidates have strong math and software foundations, with proficiency in C++ and/or Python, and a passion for turning research into production-ready features.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in math, theory, and software development.
• Experience with autonomous systems or robotics is a plus.
• Interest in translating research into real-world product features.

Responsibilities

• Architect and implement autonomy algorithms running on Skydio drones.
• Collaborate with core software team and researchers on projects that advance product capabilities.
• Prototype new approaches and assess feasibility for production deployment.
• Characterize performance of software and hardware components to guide optimization.

Skills

C++

Python

Computer vision

Deep learning

Motion planning

Dynamics and controls

3D graphics

Embedded software

Distributed systems

Mobile tooling

Job description

Skydio# Autonomy Engineer Intern, 2027Internship Live nowSan Mateo, CAPosted October 25, 2026Last seen at Skydio on October 26, 2026.FirstRoles never charges new grads or interns to apply.## About this roleSkydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors https://www.skydio.com/solutions/energy-and-utilities to first responders https://www.skydio.com/solutions/public-safety, soldiers in battlefield scenarios https://www.skydio.com/solutions/national-security/tactical-isr, and beyond https://www.skydio.com/solutions.About the role:The core of our system is the computer vision algorithms that allow drones to understand the world around them. You will architect and implement the algorithms that run on every drone powered by Skydio as part of a world class computer vision team with researchers who have pushed the state of the art in academia and industry.As an Autonomy Intern, you will be paired up with one or more members of our core software development team, assuming direct ownership of a project that meaningfully advances the capabilities of our team and products.If you have a strong foundation in math, theory, and software development with relevant research and you are interested in directly contributing to the development of the next generation of autonomy algorithms and pushing them into real products, we would love to hear from you.How you'll make an impact:- Enable rapid research and development of intelligent systems with advanced autonomous capabilities beyond anything that exists in the world today- Research, prototype, and generally assess the feasibility of new approaches- Imagine and then implement new features that unlock magic for our users- Characterize and quantify the performance of core components of the software and hardware stackWhat makes you a strong fit:- High proficiency in C++ and/or Python- Demonstrated enthusiasm for one or more of the following: computer vision, deep learning, motion planning, dynamics and controls, 3D graphics, embedded software/firmware, distributed systems, tools/infrastructure, mobile- Solid software engineering foundation and a commitment to writing clean, well-architected code- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, small team environmentCompensation: The hourly rate for this position is $47/hr for Undergrad, $53/hr for Masters, and $70/hr for PhD students\\*. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. Interns are eligible to receive the following benefits: Paid vacation time, sick leave, holiday pay and 401K savings plan. This position and all associated benefits are subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the Company’s policies and eligibility criteria.\\*For some positions the pay may be dependent upon the individual's regional location.#LI-DK1At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/