INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Engineering Intern (Software or Hardware)

CompanyPaladin Drones
LocationHouston
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJanuary 21, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
Interns will work on software or hardware projects related to robotics and autonomy. They will collaborate with experienced engineers to tackle complex challenges and contribute to the development of drone technology.
Internship Type
intern
Company Size
176
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
Drone as a First Responder (DFR) technology giving first responders a live view before they arrive
About the Role

The Role

We are looking for driven, hands-on Engineering Interns to join our team. This is not a "fetch coffee" internship. You might be writing code, assembling prototypes, or designing mechanical components that will be used in the field. You will work alongside experienced engineers to solve complex challenges in robotics, autonomy, and real-time data streaming.

We are hiring across two main tracks. Please indicate in your application which track interests you most.

Track A: Software Engineering (Full Stack / Autonomy)

  • What you’ll do:
    • Develop and optimize Python/C++ code for drone flight control and autonomous navigation.
    • Build and maintain robust APIs and backend services that manage drone fleets.
    • Assist in integrating video streaming protocols (WebRTC/RTSP) for low-latency video transmission.
    • Work with Docker and cloud infrastructure to deploy scalable software solutions.
  • What you bring:
    • Proficiency in Python or C++.
    • Familiarity with REST APIs and basic networking concepts.
    • Interest in robotics, computer vision, or path planning.

Track B: Hardware & Embedded Systems

  • What you’ll do:
    • Assist in the design and testing of UAV components
    • Debug and test custom PCBs or sensors
    • Perform field testing of drones, analyzing flight logs to improve hardware reliability.
    • Design fixtures for manufacturing or testing using CAD
  • What you bring:
    • Experience with CAD software and 3D printing/prototyping.
    • Basic understanding of circuits, microcontrollers (STM32, ESP32), and communication protocols (UART, I2C, SPI).
    • Hands-on experience with soldering, wiring, and hardware debugging.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace, or a related field.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a startup environment.
  • A passion for robotics, aviation, or public safety technology.

Bonus Points

  • Experience with ROS/ROS2 (Robot Operating System).
  • Experience building or piloting DIY drones (Part 107 license is a major plus).
  • Previous internship experience at a hardware or robotics startup.
  • Portfolio or GitHub links demonstrating side projects (we love seeing what you build for fun!).

Why Join Us?

  • Real Impact: Your code and designs will help first responders save lives.
  • Mentorship: Work directly with senior leadership and experienced engineers.
  • Hands-on: Fly drones, break things, fix things, and learn how a hardware/software startup 
Key Skills
PythonC++REST APIsNetworkingRoboticsComputer VisionPath PlanningCAD3D PrintingPrototypingCircuitsMicrocontrollersUARTI2CSPISolderingHardware Debugging
Categories
EngineeringTechnologySoftwareManufacturingData & Analytics