Embedded Software Engineering Intern 2027 Summer Internship

Polluxa, Inc.; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

Northwood is seeking an Embedded Software Engineering Intern to help build the next-generation ground stations. You will work with hardware, firmware, and software engineers to develop and test embedded systems that connect our hardware and software platforms.

You’ll gain hands-on experience with embedded Linux, hardware interfaces, and system-level development while solving complex technical problems near the hardware.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in CS/CE/EE or related field.
• Proficient in C, C++, Rust, Python (courses or projects).
• Familiar with Linux environments and command-line tools.
• Understanding of computer architecture and OS concepts.
• Experience with embedded systems or hardware/software interaction.
• Strong problem-solving and willingness to learn; collaborative.

Responsibilities

• Develop and test software for Linux-based embedded devices.
• Collaborate with hardware/firmware teams on system integration.
• Contribute to OTA software update capabilities and tooling.
• Debug hardware/software integration issues with engineers.
• Work with interfaces like I2C, SPI, UART, USB.
• Use lab equipment to troubleshoot systems.
• Write tests and documentation for reliability.
• Own an internship project and present learnings at end.

Skills

C

C++

Rust

Python

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in CS/CE/EE

Job description

Northwood is a modern space infrastructure company bringing the benefits of space to the masses through advanced communications technology. We are building a global network of phased array ground stations that enable real-time, reliable communication for satellite missions such as national security, global connectivity, and disaster response. With a vertically integrated approach, Northwood designs, builds, and rapidly deploys scalable systems that power the next generation of space missions. If you like solving complex challenges and seeing your work deployed around the world with real impact, Northwood is the place to do it.

Role Overview

Come help build the embedded systems powering Northwood’s next-generation ground stations! As an Embedded Software Engineering Intern, you’ll work alongside our hardware, firmware, and software engineers to develop and test embedded systems that connect our hardware and software platforms.

You’ll have the opportunity to work on real systems, contribute to production-relevant projects, and gain hands‑on experience with embedded Linux, hardware interfaces, and system‑level development. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working close to the hardware, solving challenging technical problems, and learning how complex systems are built from the ground up.

Responsibilities

• Develop and test software for Linux‑based embedded devices
• Contribute to embedded Linux tooling, system configuration, and user‑space applications
• Help develop and improve over‑the‑air (OTA) software update capabilities
• Debug software and hardware integration issues alongside firmware and hardware engineers
• Work with common hardware communication interfaces such as I2C, SPI, UART, and USB
• Use laboratory equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and multimeters to troubleshoot systems
• Write tests and documentation to improve the reliability and maintainability of embedded systems
• Collaborate with FPGA, electrical, firmware, and software engineers on system integration
• Own an internship project and present your work and learnings at the end of the internship

Basic Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
• Experience programming in C, C++, Rust, Python, or a similar language through coursework, projects, research, or previous internships
• Familiarity with Linux environments and command‑line tools
• Understanding of fundamental computer architecture and operating system concepts
• Familiarity with embedded systems, microcontrollers, or hardware/software interaction
• Strong problem‑solving skills and willingness to learn new technologiesAbility to work collaboratively in a hands‑on engineering environment