Autonomous Robotics & Drone Systems Internship (Must be a U.S. Citizen)

Job Title: Robotics / Policy Network / Autonomous Systems Internship

Company: Deca Defense

Location: Remote

Employment Type: Unpaid Internship (20-25 hours per week)

ITAR Restriction: In order to comply with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), we can only accept applications from U.S. citizens. Applicants who do not meet this requirement cannot be considered for this position.

About Us:

Deca Defense exclusively serves Defense OEMs and the DoD, specializing in Edge AI and autonomous systems engineering. Our mission is clear: eliminate warfighter pain points by developing custom autonomous solutions that directly resolve critical field challenges. We integrate advanced autonomy with embedded AI to deliver precise, mission-critical solutions at the tactical edge.

What sets Deca Defense apart is our team, comprised of veterans who have transitioned from the battlefield to a critical capacity behind the scenes. These individuals bring irreplaceable real-world insights from varied deployments directly to our solutions. We deliver autonomy-driven solutions tailored to the harsh realities of the tactical edge.

While others build "one-size-fits-all, vendor-locked black-box solutions" that dazzle in demos and boost their stock prices, we're busy engineering autonomous systems that excel where it truly matters: in the field, where mission success isn’t just a target, it’s a mandate.

Position Overview:

We’re offering an unpaid internship for a driven Autonomy intern, with a preference for candidates with a veteran background, to join our team. This internship provides hands-on experience in developing autonomy and robotics systems with a focus on tackling real-world challenges faced by warfighters. The ideal candidate will have foundational knowledge in autonomous systems and a passion for applying and expanding their skills in a mission-driven environment.

Key Learning Opportunities and Responsibilities:
• Gain practical experience developing and implementing autonomy algorithms for navigation, perception, and control tailored to tactical applications with guidance from experienced autonomy engineers.
• Learn and work with key robotics frameworks, such as ROS (Robot Operating System), for system integration and control of autonomous platforms.
• Develop a solid understanding of motion planning algorithms, including RRT (Rapidly-exploring Random Tree), A*, and other path planning techniques, while exploring their real-world application in constrained, dynamic environments.
• Implement perception algorithms using sensor fusion techniques, integrating data from LiDAR, cameras, and IMUs to enhance situational awareness and decision-making.
• Improve your programming skills in Python and C++, essential for developing high-performance autonomous systems.
• Experiment with SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) techniques, including graph-based and particle-filter-based approaches, with opportunities to apply these in GPS-denied environments.
• Work with computer vision and machine learning methods, such as object detection, tracking, and scene segmentation, to enhance the autonomy of systems.
• Learn optimization techniques, including Kalman filtering, Extended Kalman filters, and particle filtering, to improve localization and control accuracy.
• Contribute to system testing and debugging on real or simulated hardware, refining your skills in diagnostics and troubleshooting within autonomy projects.
• Document technical processes, algorithms, and results for future reference and knowledge sharing, contributing to the team’s collective expertise.

Preferred Qualifications and Learning Objectives:
• Preference for candidates with a military background who can bring a unique perspective and understanding of warfighter challenges to the role.
• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, with opportunities to apply and expand your academic knowledge in a practical setting.
• Familiarity with autonomy frameworks such as ROS (Robot Operating System) and simulation environments like AirSim, Gazebo, Webots, or, with opportunities to deepen your expertise through hands-on projects.
• Foundational understanding of path planning, control theory, and sensor fusion, with a focus on practical application and guided learning.
• Experience or familiarity with SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) algorithms and computer vision for robotic applications is a plus, with training on advanced implementations in real-time scenarios.
• Proficiency in Python and C++ programming, with support to further develop your coding skills in autonomy and robotics.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail, with the chance to apply and refine these abilities in an environment that emphasizes autonomy development.
• Team-oriented mindset and communication skills, with opportunities to collaborate with multidisciplinary experts in autonomy, robotics, and defense technology.

Why Join Us:

Join a team of seasoned veterans who have successfully transitioned from the field to the forefront of autonomy development. You’ll learn how autonomous solutions are engineered to directly impact mission success at the tactical edge.

This internship offers you the chance to work on projects that address genuine challenges faced by warfighters, providing you with practical, impactful experience that goes beyond theoretical knowledge.

Develop your skills in a dynamic environment, guided by professionals who’ve faced the challenges you’re helping to solve. Your growth and learning are prioritized, ensuring you gain valuable insights and expertise.

We understand the demands of working at the tactical edge and offer the flexibility needed to support your learning journey. Our mission is to help you develop the skills and knowledge to excel in your career.

How to Apply:

If you are a veteran with a passion for autonomy and robotics, and you meet the qualifications listed above, we would like to hear from you. Please note that this is an unpaid internship. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position.