Machine Learning Research Perception Intern Spring 2027 Santa Clara CA

Nissan USA; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

Nissan invites master's or PhD students to join our Santa Clara, CA team as a Machine Learning Research Perception Intern. This role focuses on sensor integration, perception, and autonomous driving validation in a collaborative, research‑oriented environment.

You will work with engineers to evaluate sensors (LiDAR, cameras, radar), develop testing methodologies, analyze large‑scale datasets, and help advance perception algorithms for next‑generation mobility solutions.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or related field.
• GPA 3.0 or above; transcript may be requested.
• Strong programming skills in C++ and Python.
• Familiarity with Linux and ROS is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Gain hands-on experience evaluating sensors for autonomous driving.
• Assist integration of sensors into autonomous platforms and validate system performance.
• Develop testing methodologies and validate sensor data.
• Analyze large-scale datasets to assess perception performance and robustness.
• Collaborate with engineers to advance perception algorithms.

Skills

C++

Python

Analytical skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in ME/EE/CS/Robotics

Tools

ROS

Linux

Job description

Location(s): Santa Clara, CA
Job Schedule: 12-week program
Degree Level: Master's - PhD Level Students
Preferred Degree: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or related field

Shape the Future of Mobility at Nissan: Launch Your Career, Drive Innovation

We are currently looking for a Machine Learning Research Perception Intern to join our team in Santa Clara, CA. With a focus on mobility and autonomous driving technologies, Nissan is seeking researchers who want to challenge themselves, develop their skills, and contribute to the future of intelligent vehicles.

On our team, we focus on next-generation sensor integration and real-world performance evaluation for autonomous driving systems. As a Machine Learning Research Intern - Perception, you will gain hands‑on experience evaluating advanced sensing technologies used in autonomous vehicles. Working closely with engineers and researchers, you will help integrate new sensors into existing autonomous driving platforms, develop testing and validation methodologies, support vehicle‑based experiments, and analyze large‑scale datasets to assess sensor performance and system‑level impact.

This role provides exposure to the complete sensor validation lifecycle, from system integration and experimental design to machine learning‑driven analysis and performance evaluation.

A Day in the Life:

• Gain hands‑on experience with the complete sensor validation workflow, from system integration and interface development to vehicle testing and data‑driven performance evaluation.
• Develop practical skills in autonomous driving system engineering, including sensor fusion, experimental design, performance metric development, and large‑scale data analysis.
• Support the integration and evaluation of next‑generation sensing technologies for autonomous vehicles.
• Analyze real‑world sensor data and develop insights into system performance, robustness, and reliability.
• Collaborate with experienced autonomous vehicle engineers and researchers on perception‑focused projects and advanced mobility technologies.

Who We’re Looking For :

Required:

• Must be currently enrolled in a Master's or PhD degree program in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• GPA of 3.0 or above (Candidates will be required to provide an official or unofficial transcript during the application process for verification.)
• Strong programming skills in C++ and/or Python.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Self‑motivated with a willingness to challenge yourself and continuously develop your technical capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research and development environment.
• Interest in autonomous driving systems, perception technologies, robotics, or machine learning.

Preferred:

• Experience with autonomous systems, robotics, or sensor technologies such as LiDAR, radar, cameras, or related sensing platforms.
• Experience designing experiments and analyzing real‑world datasets.
• Familiarity with Linux and Robot Operating System (ROS).
• Exposure to sensor fusion, perception algorithms, machine learning, or data analytics techniques.
• Experience working with large‑scale autonomous vehicle datasets is a plus.

What You’ll Look Forward to at Nissan:

Connection and Collaboration: We offer Business Synergy Teams (ERGs) and opportunities for our employees to strengthen their relationships and meet people from similar and diverse backgrounds to foster a culture of belonging.

Professional Training and Development: Expand your knowledge and skills through Nissan's rich innovation offerings, seminars, learning platforms, and leadership trainings.

Nissan is committed to a drug‑free workplace. All employment is contingent upon the successful completion of drug and background screenings in accordance with Nissan policies and in compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act and the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance. Nissan will consider qualified candidates with arrest or conviction records for employment in a manner consistent with these laws.

It is Nissan’s policy to provide Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, gender, military status, disability, or any other status protected by law. Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire; Nissan uses E‑Verify to validate employment eligibility.

NISSAN FOR EVERYONE

People are our most valuable assets, and Nissan seeks to maximize the power of each individual member of our team. When everyone belongs, the power of NISSAN is undeniable. Nissan aims to improve business results through a workplace and business that meets the needs of our employees and customer base.

Nissan is committed to creating a culture where everyone belongs and employees, customers, and partners feel respected, valued, and heard. We have Business Synergy Teams (BSTs) across the Americas that are open to all employees and seek to connect employees through common interests and foster a company culture where all employees feel supported and included.

Nissan also values inclusion in our business as we respect and recognize the diversity of our customer base and the communities where we do business. We are committed to procuring innovative goods and services, retailing our products, and communicating from a position that will help us continue to offer our customers competitively designed, market‑driven products.

Join us as we carry our commitment to our employees and customers into the future.

Santa Clara California United States of America