Software Engineering Intern (Reinforcement Learning)

Location: Champaign, Illinois, United States; onsite

Salary: $18.00–$27.00 per hour

Company

hirify.global is a global marine industry company developing technologies and products for marine recreation and autonomous marine systems.

What you will do

• Develop reinforcement learning solutions for autonomous marine vessels and intelligent boating applications.
• Research and evaluate reinforcement learning algorithms, robotics frameworks, and simulation tools.
• Design and assess training workflows, reward functions, and performance metrics.
• Conduct literature reviews and benchmark relevant RL and robotics technologies.
• Build reusable development frameworks and best practices for future RL projects.

Requirements

• Permanent US work authorization is required; visa sponsorship is not available now or in the future.
• 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 with ROS, reinforcement learning, and simulation environments.
• Coursework or project experience in robotics, machine learning, path planning, motion planning, navigation, controls, or autonomous systems, supported by a project portfolio or resume.

Nice to have

• Experience with Unity, Unreal Engine, Isaac Sim, Gazebo, VRX, or similar simulation platforms.
• Knowledge of policy optimization, value-based methods, or model-based reinforcement learning.
• Knowledge of marine robotics and autonomous vehicles.

Culture & Benefits

• Hands-on student program experience alongside experienced professionals.
• Collaborative project environment with opportunities to apply academic knowledge to real-world tasks.
• Full 40-hour work week.
• Feedback and performance reviews throughout the assignment.
• Benefits include a 401(k) plan with company match, health benefits, paid time off, and a wellness program.