2026 Summer Intern – Software Engineer, Autonomous Robot (Masters Degree)

General Motors is seeking highly motivated interns to join their Robotics Software team, focusing on the development of autonomous robotic systems. The intern will engage in hands-on experimentation, algorithm development, and integration of multi-modal sensor data to enhance AI-driven robotic solutions. Responsibilities Evaluate and test LiDAR-based localization repositories Investigate Gaussian splatting localization pipelines and assess feasibility for embedded platforms Explore machine-learning techniques for feature point correspondence between image frames Implement and benchmark place recognition algorithms using computer vision Integrate dynamic object handling into localization workflows Develop multi-agent map-building and construction processes (offboard) Design sensor fusion strategies for heterogeneous modalities (e.g., 3D LiDAR, 2D LiDAR, monocular camera, IMU, wheel odometer) Apply post-processing optimization algorithms (e.g., factor graph and pose graph) Create, curate, and manage datasets for training AI models Ensure data quality and diversity for robust algorithm development Upgrade the existing simulation environment to support generation of realistic 3D LiDAR data and photorealistic image rendering for advanced perception testing Design and implement adversarial scenarios to identify potential safety vulnerabilities and enhance overall system robustness Develop perception solutions leveraging joint representation of Bird’s Eye View (BEV) and DETR-based object detection using multi-modality inputs Enhance robustness in perception pipelines for dynamic environments Research and implement denoising diffusion-based motion planning algorithms Reinforcement learning in simulation engine to improve path generation policy Evaluate performance and scalability of AI-driven planning approaches in real-world scenarios Design and implement high-precision localization methods using camera, LiDAR, wheel encoder and inertial sensors Develop scalable and real-time localization module optimized for autonomous robotic systems Create engineering specifications and test procedures to ensure system compliance Evaluate and benchmark the performance of systems Review the state-of-the-art in camera- and LiDAR-based algorithms Troubleshoot using strong knowledge of probabilistic estimation, sensor fusion, and real-time system implementation Adjust and fine-tune system parameters to improve accuracy and robustness Skills Currently enrolled in a Masters Degree and completed at least 1 year of Masters in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, or related technical fields Proficiency in C++ or Python Adhere to continuous development and deployment practices in robotic software development Expertise in one or more of the technical areas: Camera- and LiDAR-based localization algorithms, statistical estimation theory, and practices such as pose graph and factor graph optimization and implementation Understanding state-of-the-art solutions in place recognition for addressing loop-closure detection issues Perception, e.g., feature embedding, object detection, bird's eye view (BEV) semantic representation Motion path planning algorithms, e.g., Nav2 Simulation engines: e.g., IsaacSim, IsaacLab, and etc Dataset curation and annotation tools Experience optimizing algorithm/software to balance performance within resource constraints Familiarity with ROS2 or other robotics middleware Machine learning knowledge and practice experience Proficiency with deep learning frameworks and toolchains like PyTorch and TensorFlow Familiarity with repositories like DETR, BEVformer, BEVfusion, SAMv2, Ceres Library/GTSAM, ORB-SLAM, VINS-Mono, and etc Experience working with cloud-based data collection and data pipeline systems AV/ADAS integration or industrial automation experience is a bonus Graduating between December 2026 and June 2027 Benefits Paid US GM Holidays GM Family First Vehicle Discount Program Result-based potential for growth within GM Intern events to network with company leaders and peers Company Overview General Motors is an automotive company that designs, produces, markets, and distributes vehicles and vehicle parts. It was founded in 1908, and is headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, USA, with a workforce of 10001+ employees. Its website is Company H1B Sponsorship General Motors has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 787 in 2025, 740 in 2024, 450 in 2023, 795 in 2022, 748 in 2021, 452 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.