Summer software engineering intern assisting with embedded firmware design, implementation, debugging, driver development, communication interfaces, real-time control algorithms, system architecture, code reviews, hardware-software integration, and performance optimization for eVTOL aircraft. The role requires C/C++ and Python experience, current enrollment in a relevant degree program, U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, and onsite work in Palo Alto, California.
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly aircraft the world's first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in 2026.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the design, implementation, and debugging of embedded firmware for microcontrollers and embedded processors.
- Develop and test drivers, communication interfaces (SPI, I²C, UART, CAN, etc.), and real-time control algorithms.
- Contribute to system-level software architecture, code reviews, and integration efforts.
- Collaborate with hardware and software teams to ensure seamless device communication.
- Optimize firmware performance for speed, power efficiency, and reliability.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelors or Masters degree program in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or similar from an accredited university
- Interest in eVTOL industry and personal flight
- Experience in C/C++ and Python
- Ability to learn quickly and multi-task in a dynamic and fast-paced work environment
- Strong verbal and written communication, organization, and leadership skills
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Attributes aligned with Core Values
- Safety Above All: Demonstrates a proactive safety mindset by embedding safety into daily work, identifying and mitigating risks, encouraging open dialogue about safety concerns, and continuously improving practices and protocols.
- Customer Focus: Puts customers at the center of every action by understanding their challenges, delivering meaningful value, and supporting their success.
- Work Better Together: Seeks and values diverse perspectives, builds cross-functional relationships, and fosters trust through empathetic, fact-based communication and commitment to shared decisions.
- Be the Pilot: Drives results with clarity and purpose by focusing on what matters most, adapting to change, taking initiative, and owning outcomes.
- Embrace the Unknown: Navigates ambiguity with resilience and bold thinking, challenges the status quo, and combines innovative ideas with practical approaches to overcome obstacles and drive progress.
- Respect for People: Fosters a high-performance culture grounded in respect, professionalism, and support by balancing high expectations with a healthy, collaborative environment and being a trusted, dependable teammate.
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
Similar Jobs
Aerospace
Software engineering interns will own end-to-end projects supporting satellite platform testing systems. Work may span ground support equipment and flight hardware, including software design, analysis, building, and testing. Interns receive mentorship, participate in aerospace learning sessions, and collaborate with engineering teams on impactful spacecraft projects.
Top Skills:
Python
Aerospace
Ground Software Engineering Interns will design, develop, deploy, and maintain software operating spacecraft. Interns will contribute to scoped projects and software-stack tickets while working closely with engineers, receiving mentorship, and participating in aerospace learning sessions. The role requires software architecture knowledge and enrollment in a related BS or MS program, with graduation in Fall 2027 or Spring 2028. Spring interns must be able to adjust academic commitments during the 12-week program.
Top Skills:
CC++ReactRustVue
Aerospace
Develop and improve software controlling satellites, including embedded systems, simulations, and user interfaces. Interns will enhance microcontroller software for space applications and develop embedded software for new spacecraft hardware components. The 10–12 week program includes a project with meaningful impact, mentorship, aerospace learning sessions, and professional networking.
Top Skills:
CC++Embedded SystemsMicrocontrollersSimulations
What you need to know about the Los Angeles Tech Scene
Los Angeles is a global leader in entertainment, so it’s no surprise that many of the biggest players in streaming, digital media and game development call the city home. But the city boasts plenty of non-entertainment innovation as well, with tech companies spanning verticals like AI, fintech, e-commerce and biotech. With major universities like Caltech, UCLA, USC and the nearby UC Irvine, the city has a steady supply of top-flight tech and engineering talent — not counting the graduates flocking to Los Angeles from across the world to enjoy its beaches, culture and year-round temperate climate.
Key Facts About Los Angeles Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 375,800; 5.5% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: Snap, Netflix, SpaceX, Disney, Google
- Key Industries: Artificial intelligence, adtech, media, software, game development
- Funding Landscape: $11.6 billion in venture capital funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Strong Ventures, Fifth Wall, Upfront Ventures, Mucker Capital, Kittyhawk Ventures
- Research Centers and Universities: California Institute of Technology, UCLA, University of Southern California, UC Irvine, Pepperdine, California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Quantum Science and Engineering
