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Autonomous Systems Intern – Uncrewed Systems (Undergrad-Summer 2026)
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COLSA Corporation is seeking a motivated undergraduate intern to support engineering, autonomy, and machine learning–enabled system initiatives within our Uncrewed Systems division for the Summer 2026 term (June 1 – July 31). This internship provides hands-on experience working alongside engineers, data scientists, and technical professionals developing advanced uncrewed and autonomous system technologies supporting defense and aerospace missions. The selected intern will contribute to technical projects involving software development, simulation, data processing, and autonomous system research and development in a collaborative engineering environment.
During this internship you will have the following principles and duties:
- Assist with research, development, and engineering activities related to Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), autonomous systems, and machine learning–enabled technologies
- Support development, integration, testing, and evaluation of software and simulation environments
- Work alongside engineers and data scientists to support technical projects involving simulation, autonomy, and data-driven system behavior
- Assist with software development, testing, and validation of autonomous system components
- Support technical analysis and evaluation of system performance using simulation or experimental environments
- Participate in individual and team-based technical projects and follow assigned tasks through completion
- Document technical work, results, and findings in accordance with project requirements
At COLSA, people are our most valuable resource and centered at our core value. We invite you to unite your talents with opportunity and be a part of our “Family of Professionals!” Learn about our employee-centric culture and benefits here: https://www.colsa.com/culture_benefits/
Required Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Actively enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in Mathematics no later than the start of the internship (June 1)
- Junior or Senior standing at the time the internship begins (June 1)
- Programming experience in Python, C++, Java, or similar language through coursework, academic projects, or personal projects
- Familiarity with Linux or Unix-based computing environments
- Experience using version control systems such as Git through coursework or academic projects
- Academic project or coursework involving software development, simulation, robotics, or technical computing environments
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical learning aptitude
- U.S. Citizenship required; must be able to successfully undergo criminal background check prior to start of employment.
- Relocation assistance or a housing stipend is not provided; however, candidates needing housing in the Huntsville area may wish to explore local options such as the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s summer intern housing program, which is designed for visiting interns at: https://www.uah.edu/housing/intern-application
Preferred Qualifications
- Exposure to robotics, autonomous systems, or Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS)
- Experience with simulation environments such as ROS, Gazebo, Isaac Sim, Isaac Lab, or similar tools
- Exposure to machine learning, reinforcement learning, computer vision, or digital signal processing concepts
- Exposure to computer vision tools such as OpenCV or image processing techniques
- Exposure to modeling, simulation, CAD, or Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools
- Experience working with sensors, hardware/software integration, or embedded systems
- Experience using Git or version control systems in team-based environments
- Participation in robotics teams, engineering projects, research programs, or technical competitions
Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. COLSA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
The salary range, if referenced, represents a good faith estimate. COLSA considers various factors when determining base salary offers, but not limited to, location, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements.
COLSA offers a comprehensive and customizeable benefits program which includes Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Supplemental Income Protection Programs, 401(k) with company match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Education & Certification Reimbursement, Employee Discount Program, Paid Time Off and Holidays.
This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 business days. If a candidate has not been selected at that time, it will continue to be posted until a suitable candidate is selected or the position is closed.