Physical AI Manufacturing Intern

Nissan Global; Smyrna (TN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Nissan is seeking a Manufacturing Strategy Innovation Intern in Smyrna, TN for a 12-week full-time internship. The role focuses on identifying and implementing AI technologies across manufacturing plants, with projects in robotics, vision inspection, and digital simulation.

Ideal candidates are enrolled in STEM degrees and have experience in robotics, ROS, and programming; strong teamwork and problem-solving skills are required. Onsite work in Smyrna, TN is needed.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or master's degree program in Robotics Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mathematics, Software Engineering, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Gain hands-on experience with manufacturing automation systems and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies through innovative technologies.
• Develop project management skills by supporting all phases of a project, including proposal development, technical design, simulation and modeling, hardware prototyping, coding, and testing.
• Collaborate on Physical AI projects involving robotics, vision inspection systems, and digital simulation technologies.
• Track trial results and create detailed reports summarizing findings, recommendations, and outcomes.
• Participate in internship program activities, networking events, and professional development opportunities.

Job description

Location(s): Smyrna, TN Job Schedule: Full-time, 12-week program Degree Level: Junior or Senior Preferred Degree: Robotics Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mathematics, Software Engineering, or related field Sponsorship: Not Available

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

We are currently looking for a Manufacturing Strategy Innovation Intern to join our team in Smyrna, TN. The Manufacturing Strategy Innovation team is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and implementing innovative AI technologies across Nissan North America manufacturing plants to support our short-, mid-, and long-term competitiveness and quality goals. This internship offers a unique opportunity to collaborate on Physical AI projects focused on robotics, vision inspection, and simulation. You will gain exposure to the day-to-day responsibilities of a manufacturing engineer while leading a project that directly supports Nissan's goals in the domain of artificial intelligence-enabled devices and advanced manufacturing technologies.

A Day in the Life:

• Gain hands-on experience with manufacturing automation systems and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies through innovative technologies.
• Develop project management skills by supporting all phases of a project, including proposal development, technical design, simulation and modeling, hardware prototyping, coding, and testing.
• Collaborate on Physical AI projects involving robotics, vision inspection systems, and digital simulation technologies.
• Track trial results and create detailed reports summarizing findings, recommendations, and outcomes.
• Participate in internship program activities, networking events, and professional development opportunities.

Who We’re Looking For:

Required:

• Must be currently enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or master's degree program in Robotics Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mathematics, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Students entering their Junior or Senior year at the start of the upcoming academic term.
• Experience with robotics, controls, perception systems, and IoT technologies.
• Working knowledge of programming languages such as Python, C/C++, and ROS.
• Basic knowledge of AI development and coding tools.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• GPA of 3.0 or above (Candidates will be required to provide an official or unofficial transcript during the application process for verification.)
• Ability to perform work onsite in Smyrna, TN.

Preferred:

• Experience with machine vision, computer vision, or AI-enabled inspection systems.
• Exposure to industrial robotics, automation equipment, or manufacturing technologies.
• Experience with simulation, modeling, or digital twin applications.
• Knowledge of machine learning, artificial intelligence, or data analytics concepts.
• Interest in advanced manufacturing, smart factories, and Industry 4.0 technologies.

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.

Smyrna Tennessee United States of America