Humanoid Robotics Software Intern

Persona AI is building humanoid robots for the most demanding environments in heavy industry — shipyards, steel mills, fabrication facilities, and offshore platforms — performing welding, grinding, maintenance, inspection, and material-handling work that is dangerous, physically demanding, and increasingly difficult to staff.

We are backed by leading strategic and financial investors and engaged with global industrial leaders across Korea, Japan, the United States, and Singapore. Korea is the center of gravity for our early commercial strategy, anchored by relationships with the world’s leading shipbuilders and steelmakers. Our work spans both the robot platform itself and the systems, partners, and playbooks required to deploy it at scale.

We're seeking a Humanoid Robotics Software Intern to join our team in Houston, TX or Pensacola, FL and contribute to the software systems that bring our humanoid robots to life. You'll work on robotics software including perception, locomotion, manipulation, and machine learning systems.

Based on team needs, you may work on things such as:

- Humanoid Locomotion: Develop algorithms for walking, balance, and bipedal movement control systems

- Perception Systems: Work on computer vision, sensor fusion, and environmental understanding capabilities

- Manipulation Software: Contribute to robotic arm and hand control systems for grasping and dexterous manipulation

- Machine Learning: Implement learning algorithms, training pipelines, and model optimization for robotic applications

- Autonomy: Develop navigation, planning, and decision-making algorithms for real-world operation

- Platform Software: Build the core infrastructure, tooling, and runtime systems that power the robot stack

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- Hands-on experience with humanoid robotics software development

- Advanced robotics algorithms including SLAM, path planning, and control theory

- Machine learning applications in robotics and autonomous systems

- Real-time software development and embedded systems programming

- Collaborative software development in a fast-paced startup environment

QUALIFICATIONS

- Currently pursuing Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Software Engineering, or related field

- Genuine curiosity and passion for robotics, AI, or autonomous systems

- Eagerness to learn and tackle complex technical challenges

- Programming experience in Python and/or C++ through coursework, research, or projects

- Willingness to dive into new technologies and frameworks

- Strong problem-solving mindset with persistence when debugging code

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

- Any coursework, personal projects, or hackathons involving programming or software development

- Basic exposure to robotics concepts, machine learning, or computer vision (through classes or personal interest)

- Familiarity with version control systems (Git) or software development practices

- Previous internship, co-op, or project experience in any technical field

- Participation in coding clubs, programming competitions, or open-source projects

TECHNICAL AREAS OF INTEREST

- Perception: Computer vision, sensor fusion, SLAM

- Locomotion: Bipedal walking, balance, gait planning

- Manipulation: Arm control, grasping, dexterous manipulation

- Machine Learning: Reinforcement learning, computer vision, planning

- Systems: Real-time control, embedded software, robotics middleware

Our Internship Program

At Persona AI, our internship program gives you direct, hands-on experience building cutting-edge humanoid robotics alongside industry experts. We offer full-time term opportunities across three upcoming cohorts:

- Spring 2027: January – May

- Summer 2027: May – August

- Fall 2027: August – December

As an intern, you’ll be paired 1:1 with a senior engineer mentor to accelerate your growth and guide your technical contributions. You will bond with your cohort through intern group lunches, gain cross-functional perspective during company-wide learning lunches, and unwind with fun team activities throughout the term. Whether you're working on advanced motion planning or real-world system testing, you'll tackle meaningful engineering challenges while immersing yourself in our collaborative startup culture.

Application Review Process

We review applications on a rolling basis, and roles may fill before the posted deadline. To give yourself the best chance of securing a spot, keep these tips in mind:

- Apply Early: Submitting your resume as soon as possible ensures your materials are reviewed before interview slots fill up.

- Cohort Availability: Popular terms, especially Summer 2027, tend to reach capacity quickly.

- Rolling Interviews: Interviews and candidate evaluations begin immediately upon application receipt.

Persona AI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.