INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Robotics Software Engineer- Internship- Summer 2026

CompanyDEKA Research & Development
LocationManchester
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJanuary 15, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
As a Robotics Software Engineering Intern, you will design, develop, and deploy autonomous systems, focusing on building middleware architectures and integrating sensors. You will also implement algorithms for navigation and manipulation, ensuring the software works seamlessly with physical hardware.
Internship Type
intern
Company Size
830
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
DEKA is one of the leading research and development companies in the country and is the birthplace of some of the most innovative and life-changing products of our time. For over thirty years, DEKA Research & Development Corp. has made Manchester, New Hampshire home. Located about an hour from Boston, the beach, and the mountains, we are situated in the beautiful and historic Amoskeag Millyard buildings located in downtown Manchester. DEKA continues to be a place where no idea seems too big and where creativity and cool gizmos reign supreme. The engineers, technicians, machinists, designers and all of the other folks who make up DEKA are some of the most creative and innovative professionals you could ever hope to meet. It's a place where one crazy idea can end up being the next greatest invention. At DEKA we embrace the spirit of innovation and constantly aim to turn the impossible into a reality. DEKA is filled with people who are driven to be among the best and brightest in their field of work. It’s a concentrated bunch of really smart thinkers, doers and problems solvers, who are driven to using innovative design solutions and state-of-the-art technology to improve lives. We all see endless possibilities in the power of technology to do good. Employees have the opportunity to work on diverse projects that have a positive, enduring impact on millions of people worldwide. We are growing! We're always seeking passionate individuals to join our growing team of evolved thinkers.
About the Role
DEKA is seeking a Robotics Software Engineering Intern to design, develop, and deploy autonomous systems using Robot Operating System (ROS/ROS 2). In this role, you will be responsible for building robust middleware architectures, integrating complex sensors, and implementing cutting-edge algorithms for navigation, perception, and manipulation. Your work will bridge the gap between high-level software logic and physical hardware execution. Additionally, you will be developing key features on an active robotics project with the products you create being deployed and tested in the real world.

DEKA offers Internships and Co-Ops for full time students* (must be at least 18 years of age).  Internships last a minimum of 10 weeks, but 12 weeks is preferred. All summer internships must start no later than June 15, 2026.

How you will make an impact as a Robotics Software Engineering Intern:
  • Architecture Design: Develop and maintain modular software nodes and communication interfaces using ROS/ROS 2 (C++ and Python).
  • Sensor Integration: Interface and calibrate hardware including LiDAR, IMUs, and Depth Cameras for real-time environment mapping.
  • Navigation & Control: Implement Path Planning (e.g., Nav2), SLAM, and PID control loops to ensure precise robotic movement.
  • Simulation & Testing: Validate software in high-fidelity simulation environments like Gazebo or Isaac Sim before deploying to physical prototypes.
  • Optimization: Debug distributed systems and optimize message passing to minimize latency in safety-critical applications. 
To be successful in this role as a Robotics Software Engineering Intern, you will need the following skills and experience:
  • Must have a BS or MS in Software, Robotics, or equivalent engineering discipline
  • Proficiency in C++ and Python.
  • Deep understanding of DDS (Data Distribution Service) and ROS 2 middleware.
  • Experience with Linux environments (Ubuntu) and version control (Git)
  • Software or Robotics background
  • Passion for solving hard problems
  • Strong verbal and written communication 
  • Must have attention to detail 

About DEKA:

One hour from the beach, Boston, and the mountains, the historic Amoskeag Millyard once housed the largest textile mills in the world. It is now home to DEKA Research & Development, where we are taking the same innovation and cutting-edge technology into the modern age.

Behind DEKA’s brick walls sits a team of professionals who strive to make a difference every day through thoughtful engineering, design, and manufacturing. Here at DEKA, some of the most innovative and life-changing products of our time are created, and new ideas are always welcome and explored.

Additional Information:

*Applicants should be aware that short-term housing options in Manchester, NH are limited and that DEKA is not able to assist with housing. 

Public transportation is available and routes/schedules can be found by visiting the Manchester Transit Authority website, www.mtabus.org.

Please be aware that we try to make sure that our internship opportunities are well defined and will provide a unique experience. We understand that most candidates would like to know if they have a placement as soon as possible, but at DEKA it takes more time than other companies at we review every application that is submitted.  We will try to let you know as soon as we can, but encourage you to pursue other opportunities as well.

*A full time student is defined as being enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits per semester at an undergraduate program, or a minimum of 9 credits per semester for a graduate program.

Key Skills
C++PythonROSROS 2DDSLinuxUbuntuGitSensor IntegrationPath PlanningSLAMPID ControlSimulationTestingDebuggingOptimization
Categories
TechnologyEngineeringSoftware