Embedded Systems Intern

About the Company

Terranova builds intelligent robotic systems to terraform the Earth, lifting land, restoring wetlands, and protecting critical infrastructure from floods and sea-level rise. Our mission is to preserve the built environment and support climate resilience, disaster recovery, and defense.

Responsibilities

• Own aspects of electrical design, firmware, controls integration, and PCB design
• Develop and debug embedded firmware in C/C++ for STM32, ESP32, RP2040, or similar
• Design and review mixed-signal PCBs using KiCad or Altium
• Integrate sensors, radios, and power electronics using I²C, SPI, UART, and CAN
• Characterize and optimize power budgets, EMI performance, and manufacturability
• Bring-up, test, and validate hardware prototypes through DFM/DFT cycles
• Support system integration and field debugging of deployed robotic platforms
• Understand high power systems (150+ kW) and ensure safe design
• Collaborate with electrical, controls, and field teams to deliver integrated systems
• Drive failure analysis and iterative improvement based on real-world data

Requirements

• Working towards a bachelor’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field
• U.S. permanent residency required
• Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems
• Experience with PCB design tools like KiCad or Altium
• Ability to work in a fast-paced startup environment including long days and field hours

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on prototyping and maker experience
• Experience with LiDAR, sensors, and electromechanical controls (VFDs)
• Experience with high voltage AC power conversion and lithium batteries
• Experience with FreeRTOS or Zephyr
• CAD proficiency (OnShape, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or NX)
• Familiarity with Python for controls or simulation
• Experience with compliance, HAZOP, and FMEA tools