What We Do
At the SEI AI Division, we conduct research in applied artificial intelligence and the engineering questions related to the practical design and implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies and systems. We currently lead a community-wide movement to mature the discipline of AI Engineering for Defense and National Security.
As our government customers adopt AI and machine learning (ML) to provide leap-ahead mission capabilities, we
- build real-world, mission-scale AI capabilities through solving practical engineering problems.
- discover and define the processes, practices, and tools to support operationalizing AI for robust, secure, scalable, and human-centered mission capabilities.
- prepare our customers to be ready for the unique challenges of adopting, deploying, using, and maintaining AI capabilities.
- identify and investigate emerging AI and AI-adjacent technologies that are rapidly transforming the technology landscape.
Are you creative, curious, and collaborative? Do you enjoy doing meaningful and complex work? Are you interested in making a difference by bringing innovation to government organizations and beyond? Apply to join our team today!
Position Summary:
As an intern in our Advanced Computing Lab, you will work with a team of electrical engineers and computer science researchers on analyzing and improving mission system performance metrics through the use of novel AI-focused hardware accelerators, FPGAs, optimized low-level algorithms, and experimental compilers.
Duties:
Complete tasks to support ongoing projects within the Advanced Computing Lab, which could consist of
- Profiling performance of various compute systems
- Testing and debugging ML-related algorithms
- Supporting the development of prototypes, tools, and demos
- Collecting and curating project-related code, research publications, and hardware specifications
- FPGA design and simulation
- Outdoor data-collection fieldwork that requires the physical capability to carry moderately heavy equipment (approx. 25–40 lbs) at various field sites
Requirements:
- Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate degree granting program.
- Able to work an internship schedule during the summer semester.
- Able to work on-site in the SEI Pittsburgh office.
- Eligibility to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.
- Candidates will be subject to a background check.
- Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Experience with modern software languages such as Python and C/C++, and hardware design languages including Verilog, VHDL, or other HLS languages
- Familiarity with software and hardware engineering processes
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to interact collaboratively and diplomatically with customers and colleagues
Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Pittsburgh, PAJob Function
Non-CMU StudentsPosition Type
Intern (Fixed Term)Full Time/Part time
Full timePay Basis
HourlyMore Information:
Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
Statement of Assurance
Skills Required
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree-granting program
- Available to work a full-time internship during the summer semester
- Able to work on-site at the SEI Pittsburgh office
- Authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship
- Currently legally authorized to work for Carnegie Mellon University in the United States
- Able to pass a background check
- Experience with Python, C/C++, and hardware design languages such as Verilog, VHDL, or HLS languages
- Familiarity with software and hardware engineering processes
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to collaborate and interact diplomatically with customers and colleagues
- Physical ability to carry approximately 25–40 pounds during fieldwork
Carnegie Mellon University Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Carnegie Mellon University and has not been reviewed or approved by Carnegie Mellon University.
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Retirement Support — Retirement support is positioned as a standout, with automatic employer contributions to a TIAA-administered plan at 8% of base salary (and 9.78% for 9‑month academic appointments), plus optional employee deferrals. Vesting after three years is clearly specified, which helps set expectations for long-term value.
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Parental & Family Support — Parental and family support is strengthened by 100% paid parental leave for six weeks and 100% paid maternity leave for 6–8 weeks (delivery-type dependent), effective July 1, 2024. Childcare support is also referenced through a Cyert Center subsidy up to $5,000 per family, alongside no-cost EAP access.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Wellbeing and lifestyle benefits include free Pittsburgh Regional Transit access and access to fitness classes and facilities, adding recurring non-cash value to the overall package. Pittsburgh’s relatively affordable cost of living can further increase the perceived adequacy of a given salary compared with higher-cost coastal hubs.
Carnegie Mellon University Insights
What We Do
Carnegie Mellon University founder Andrew Carnegie said: "My heart is in the work." No statement better captures the passion and drive of our people to make a real difference. At Carnegie Mellon, we're not afraid of the work. Our educational environment creates problem solvers, drivers of innovation and pioneers in technology and the arts. Employers in every field say our graduates are ready to hit the ground running the day they graduate. So, join us. Whether you're looking for a career or an education. Or both.







