Software Engineering Intern

The Boating Intelligence (BI) Design Lab is seeking a Reinforcement Learning Intern to help establish and advance our capabilities in Reinforcement Learning (RL) for marine vessels and autonomous marine systems. This role is ideal for a student with a strong foundation in Python and an interest in robotics, autonomous systems, Reinforcement Learning, Simulation and AI. The intern will collaborate with engineers to build the foundations necessary for successful RL projects, including simulation environments, training pipelines, evaluation frameworks, and experimentation workflows. The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience applying modern machine learning and robotics techniques to real-world marine autonomy challenges. The Lab is hoping to find someone who can start in the Spring semester of 2027 and work with the lab continuously through the Summer and Fall semesters.

Responsibilities

Assist in the development of reinforcement learning solutions for autonomous marine vessels and intelligent boating applications; Research and evaluate reinforcement learning algorithms, robotics frameworks, and simulation tools; Design, implement, and evaluate training workflows, reward functions, and performance metrics; Perform literature reviews and benchmarking of relevant RL and robotics technologies; Contribute to the creation of reusable development frameworks and best practices for future RL projects

Requirements

Permanent US work authorization; Current enrollment in a BS or Master's degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign; Demonstrated interest in robotics, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, or machine learning; Working experience with Python and/or C++; Familiarity or experience with Robot Operating System (ROS), Reinforcement Learning and simulation environments; Coursework or project experience related to robotics, machine learning, path planning, motion planning, navigation, controls, or autonomous systems; Portfolio/Resume highlighting a variety of projects

Nice to have

Work experience with Unity, Unreal Engine, Isaac Sim, Gazebo, VRX, or similar simulation platforms; Work experience with machine learning, reinforcement learning concepts, including policy optimization, value-based methods, or model-based approaches; Knowledge of marine robotics, and autonomous vehicles is a plus

Benefits

competitive 401(k) plan with company match; health benefits; paid time off; robust Wellness Program; hands-on learning opportunities in a professional setting; feedback and performance reviews