How to Get an Internship at Tesla

If you're someone who is passionate about innovative technology and sustainable energy, a Tesla internship can be an exciting opportunity to advance your career. As one of the leading companies in electric cars and renewable energy solutions, Tesla offers internships that provides students with valuable hands-on experience in various departments. In this post, we'll discuss the steps you need to take to secure an internship at Tesla!

Frequently Asked Questions About Tesla Internships

If you're looking for an opportunity to work with one of the most innovative companies in the world, Tesla may be the perfect choice for you. Their dynamic and cutting-edge approach towards electric vehicles and clean energy has revolutionized the industry, making them a highly sought-after employer.

Tesla offers internship programs that provide aspiring individuals with a unique opportunity to grow as professionals and gain valuable industry experience. With a commitment to innovation and sustainable energy solutions, Tesla offers a range of internship positions in various departments, including engineering, manufacturing, research and development, and more. Here's some more information about the internships at Tesla:

• Internship Length: 12-16 weeks
• Software Engineer Intern Salary: $50.48 per hour
• Number of Interns: 127,855+ (across all roles)
• Office Locations: Palo Alto and Fremont, California!
• Application Cycle: Tesla offers internships year-round, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. For summer internships, they typically open their application process in the early fall or winter.

Curious about what you'll be doing as a Tesla intern? Here's how Tesla describes their university program and what you can expect:

Perform meaningful work from day one. We will challenge you to take on high-impact projects, expand your technical skills and exceed your own expectations. We expect interns to perform to the same level of excellence as our full-time employees—which is why we often hire them back.

What Experience and Qualifications Do I Need?

To be considered for an internship at Tesla, here's what you need to know in terms of experience and qualifications:

• You should have completed your sophomore or junior year of a bachelor's program (graduate students are also eligible).
• While previous work experience is desirable, it's not mandatory.
• Technical proficiency in fields like electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or software development is important.
• It's beneficial to have relevant experience working on real-world projects or taking courses that align with job-related skills.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are essential.

By meeting the eligibility requirements, having the necessary skills, and following the application process, you increase your chances of securing an internship at Tesla. Keep in mind that the details mentioned above are not an exhaustive list, as different internship positions at Tesla may have specific requirements. For accurate and up-to-date information, visit Tesla's career page to find the specific requirements for each position.

When Do Applications Open?

Tesla offers internships throughout the year, organized into three seasons: Spring/Winter, Summer, and Fall. The application timeline for each season is as follows:

• Spring/Winter: Applications are typically posted in early Fall of the prior year.
• Summer: Applications are posted in early or mid-Fall of the prior year.
• Fall: Applications are posted in early Spring/Winter of the same year.

Types of Internships at Tesla

Tesla offers a diverse range of internship opportunities to suit different interests and skill sets. These include engineering internships in areas like electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, software engineering, and computer science. Manufacturing internships provide hands-on experience in Tesla's production facilities, while business and operations internships cover areas such as finance, marketing, sales, and supply chain management.

Tesla also offers internships related to energy and sustainability, design and user experience (UX), and research and development. Each internship provides valuable insights into Tesla's operations and allows interns to contribute to the company's mission in their respective fields.

How Can I Apply?

To apply for an internship at Tesla, follow these general steps:

1. Visit the Tesla Careers Page on Simplify: Look for the "Internships" section or search for internship opportunities within the available job listings.
2. Explore Available Internship Positions: Browse through the internship positions listed. Take note of the specific requirements, qualifications, and application deadlines for each internship opportunity.
3. Prepare Your Application Materials: Tailor your application materials to showcase your qualifications and highlight relevant experiences. Typically, you will need to submit a resume and a cover letter. Ensure that your resume highlights your academic achievements, relevant coursework, projects, and any previous work experience.
4. Autofill Your Application: Once you have prepared your application materials, follow the instructions provided on the website to submit your autofill and submit your application. This may involve uploading your resume and cover letter through an online application portal or following specific application submission guidelines.
5. Follow Up and Stay Engaged: After submitting your application, it can be helpful to follow up with Tesla's recruitment team to express your continued interest and inquire about the application status. Be sure to check your email regularly for any communication from Tesla regarding your application.
6. Prepare for Interviews: If your application is selected, you may be invited for an interview. Prepare for the interview by researching Tesla, understanding the internship position, and preparing answers to common interview questions. Be ready to showcase your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for Tesla's mission.

It's important to note that the application process may vary depending on the specific internship position and location. Be sure to review the application instructions provided on the Tesla Careers page for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What to Expect from the Interview

The Tesla interview process typically consists of multiple rounds, each focusing on different aspects of your skills and experience. Here's what you can expect:

1. First Round: This initial interview centers around your experience and may involve discussing your resume and answering behavioral questions. It's essential to showcase your relevant qualifications and provide examples that highlight your skills and accomplishments.
2. Second Round: The second interview delves into more specific roles and technical questions. Be prepared to demonstrate your knowledge in areas relevant to the job description. The required concepts may vary depending on the role, so ensure you have a solid understanding of the technologies and languages mentioned.
3. Waiting for Feedback: After completing the interviews, you'll enter the waiting period. Typically, candidates hear back within a couple of weeks, although some may receive a response as soon as the next day. If more than two weeks pass without any communication, it's advisable to reach out to your recruiter for an update.

In addition to these insights, here are some tips based on recent interview experiences and research:

• Tesla often asks questions related to the technologies and languages mentioned in the job description, so be prepared to discuss your knowledge in those areas.
• Research your interviewer on LinkedIn to gain insights into their expertise. If they have experience with specific technologies or languages mentioned in the job description, there's a good chance those will be discussed.
• Prepare a compelling answer to the question, "Why Tesla?" Highlight why you consider Tesla the next step in your career and emphasize your belief in their mission.

How to Secure a Return Offer

Securing a return offer after completing an internship at Tesla is a fantastic opportunity to continue your professional growth within the company. Here are some tips to increase your chances of receiving a return offer:

1. Perform at an Exceptional Level: During your internship, strive for excellence in your work. Deliver high-quality results, demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, and showcase your ability to work effectively within a team. Consistently exceeding expectations and demonstrating a strong work ethic will make you a compelling candidate for a return offer.
2. Take Initiative and Show Ownership: Proactively seek out additional responsibilities and projects beyond your assigned tasks. Show your willingness to take initiative, demonstrate leadership skills, and take ownership of your work. This demonstrates your dedication and commitment to making a meaningful impact within the company.
3. Build Strong Relationships: Network and build relationships with colleagues and supervisors throughout your internship. Seek out opportunities to collaborate with different teams and departments, attend company events, and engage in conversations with professionals at all levels. Building these connections not only enhances your learning experience but also increases your visibility and chances of receiving a return offer.
4. Seek Feedback and Act on It: Actively seek feedback from your supervisors and colleagues. Take their input seriously and make necessary improvements based on their guidance. Showing a willingness to learn and grow demonstrates your commitment to personal and professional development.
5. Stay Connected and Express Interest: Stay connected with the company by attending career fairs, networking events, or virtual sessions hosted by Tesla. Additionally, express your interest in returning to Tesla for a full-time position and inquire about potential opportunities with your supervisors or the HR department. Letting them know about your continued enthusiasm and desire to contribute to Tesla's mission can help pave the way for a return offer.

Remember, securing a return offer is not guaranteed, but by consistently performing at a high level, taking initiative, building relationships, seeking feedback, and expressing your interest, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving an offer to continue your journey with Tesla.

Get Started With Simplify Today

Tesla has an awesome careers page that you can check out right here. Keep an eye out for when applications open up because they tend to fill up fast! Landing an internship at Tesla is an incredible opportunity to gain practical professional experience, nurture leadership skills, and strengthen your technical prowess.

Now, let's talk about the application process. Just like many other online applications, Tesla's can be quite lengthy and may require redundant information that you've already entered multiple times for other positions. But don't sweat it! We've got your back with our handy free browser extension, which can autofill your Tesla application (and over 100,000 other roles) to save you some valuable time. Good luck with your job search, and go show Tesla what you've got!