Space-Grade Embedded Systems Intern

northwoodspace; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

Northwood Space is seeking an Embedded Software Engineering Intern to join the hardware, firmware, and software teams building our next-generation ground stations. You will develop and test embedded systems that connect hardware and software platforms on Linux-based devices.

This internship offers hands-on experience with embedded Linux, common interfaces (I2C, SPI, UART, USB), OTA updates, and system-level development, with mentorship and real production-relevant projects.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Experience programming in C, C++, Rust, Python through coursework, projects, research, or internships.
• Familiarity with Linux environments and command-line tools.
• Understanding of computer architecture and OS concepts.
• Familiarity with embedded systems, microcontrollers, or hardware/software interaction.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn new technologies.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a hands-on engineering environment.

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 interfaces such as I2C, SPI, UART, and USB.
• Use lab equipment to troubleshoot systems.
• Write tests and documentation to improve 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.

Skills

C

C++

Rust

Python

Linux

Embedded systems

Teamwork

Education

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

Tools

Yocto

PetaLinux

Git

Job description

Northwood Space is seeking an Embedded Software Engineering Intern to join the hardware, firmware, and software teams building our next-generation ground stations. You will develop and test embedded systems that connect hardware and software platforms on Linux-based devices.

This internship offers hands-on experience with embedded Linux, common interfaces (I2C, SPI, UART, USB), OTA updates, and system-level development, with mentorship and real production-relevant projects.