Description
GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP NOW OR IN THE FUTURE. THIS INCLUDES DIRECT COMPANY SPONSORSHIP, ENTRY OF GM AS THE IMMIGRATION EMPLOYER OF RECORD ON A GOVERNMENT FORM, AND ANY WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIRING A WRITTEN SUBMISSION OR OTHER IMMIGRATION SUPPORT FROM THE COMPANY (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc.)
Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report in office three times per week, at minimum [or other frequency dictated by the business].
Start dates for this internship role are May 18 & June 15 of 2026.
The Team:
The Manufacturing Robotics & Automation Research Team has driven transformative breakthroughs in industrial automation—from pioneering early robotic systems and programmable control technologies to advancing safe human-robot collaboration and deploying space-grade robotics on the International Space Station. Our work continues to shape flexible manufacturing technologies that strengthen national defense and global competitiveness.
At General Motors Research & Development, we don’t just innovate—we redefine how the world manufactures. Now, we’re looking for visionary talent to help write the next chapter in this legacy and build a better future through technology.
As a valued Academic Research Intern in Manufacturing Robotics & Automation Research, you’ll be part of a team shaping the future of industrial automation. You’ll contribute bold ideas, explore new research directions, and help define technical strategies that drive next-generation robotics solutions. Your work will involve hands-on experimentation, data collection, and validation of breakthrough technologies. You’ll document your findings through high-quality research reports, publications, and invention disclosures—advancing both GM’s innovation pipeline and your professional growth. This role calls for a strong foundation in mechanical, electrical, controls, or robotics engineering, along with skills in motion systems, PLCs, kinematics, and mechatronics. You’ll also apply project management principles as you collaborate across disciplines to solve real-world manufacturing challenges.
Join us in redefining how the world builds the future.
What You Will Do:
- Pioneer transformative research in robotics and automation to unlock new frontiers in automotive manufacturing.
- Invent the future of vehicle production by designing next-generation robotic systems and identifying breakthrough opportunities for automation.
- Engineer intelligent solutions for real-time robot guidance, adaptive control, path optimization, digital twins, and in-line quality assurance—driving precision and performance.
- Communicate with impact by delivering compelling technical reports and presentations that influence stakeholders and shape strategic direction.
- Protect innovation by generating high-value intellectual property that secures GM’s leadership in advanced manufacturing technologies.
- Create new methodologies that push the boundaries of what’s possible in industrial research and development.
- Model the future through advanced simulations and mathematical frameworks that accelerate technology deployment.
- Leverage cutting-edge tools and techniques to validate concepts and fuel continuous innovation.
- Lead and collaborate globally with top-tier technical teams, fostering a culture of excellence and shared success.
- Deliver results with autonomy and integrity, ensuring every technical assignment contributes meaningfully to GM’s mission.
- Stay ahead of the curve by continuously exploring emerging trends and technologies that shape the future of manufacturing.
- Represent GM with distinction at global conferences and industry forums, amplifying our voice in the technical community.
Required Qualifications:
- U.S. citizenship required to comply with federal government contract provision expressly restricting role to U.S. citizens.
- Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a relevant science or engineering discipline (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or Mechatronics).
- Minimum of 2 years of hands-on research experience in automation and robotics, gained through academic, institutional, or industrial R&D settings.
- Strong foundation in robotics and automation technologies, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), automatic control systems, mechatronics, and structured problem-solving methodologies.
- Proficiency in experimental design and execution, including robotic system integration, programming, safety protocols, and iterative learning through testing and refinement.
- Familiarity with industrial robot programming platforms, such as ABB, FANUC, KUKA, or Yaskawa, and simulation environments like ROS, Gazebo, or MATLAB/Simulink.
- Understanding of manufacturing processes and systems integration, especially in automotive or high-volume production environments.
- Ability and willingness to travel to manufacturing sites for troubleshooting, technology deployment, and collaboration with plant teams.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary and global technical teams, with a strong commitment to shared success.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
- Proven ability to lead or contribute meaningfully to technical projects, both independently and within team environments.
- Strong analytical and computational skills, including experience with simulation tools, modeling software, and data analysis platforms.
- Intellectual curiosity and adaptability, with a passion for continuous learning and staying current with emerging technologies in manufacturing and robotics.
What Will Give You a Competitive Advantage (Preferred Qualifications):
- Ph.D. degree from a top-tier research institution in a science or engineering discipline.
- Ph.D. degree with postdoctoral research experience, particularly in robotics, automation, or advanced manufacturing.
- Experience with digital twins, AI/ML applications in manufacturing, or Industry 4.0 technologies is highly desirable.
- Experience with machine vision systems, including camera calibration, image processing, and integration with robotic platforms.
- Knowledge of software development practices, including proficiency in Python, C++, or other languages used in automation and robotics.
- Demonstrated innovation, such as published research, patents, or contributions to open-source robotics projects or technical communities.
