Embedded Software Engineering Intern (2027 Summer Internship)

Northwood is a modern space infrastructure company developing advanced communications technology and phased array ground stations for satellite missions. The Embedded Software Engineering Intern will develop and test Linux-based embedded systems, contribute to system tooling and OTA updates, troubleshoot hardware and software integration issues, and collaborate with engineering teams on system integration.

What you'll do:

• Develop and test software for Linux-based embedded devices
• Contribute to embedded Linux tooling, system configuration, and user-space applications
• Help develop and improve over-the-air (OTA) software update capabilities
• Debug software and hardware integration issues alongside firmware and hardware engineers
• Work with common hardware communication interfaces such as I2C, SPI, UART, and USB
• Use laboratory equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and multimeters to troubleshoot systems
• Write tests and documentation to improve the reliability and maintainability of embedded systems
• Collaborate with FPGA, electrical, firmware, and software engineers on system integration
• Own an internship project and present your work and learnings at the end of the internship

What they're looking for:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
• Experience programming in C, C++, Rust, Python, or a similar language through coursework, projects, research, or previous internships
• Familiarity with Linux environments and command-line tools
• Understanding of fundamental computer architecture and operating system concepts
• Familiarity with embedded systems, microcontrollers, or hardware/software interaction
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn new technologies
• Ability to work collaboratively in a hands-on engineering environment
• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State
• Experience with embedded Linux environments such as Yocto or PetaLinux
• Experience with common bus interfaces such as I2C, SPI, UART, or USB
• Experience with microcontrollers, development boards, or FPGA-based systems
• Familiarity with RTOS environments such as Zephyr or FreeRTOS