Software Engineer Intern – Reinforcement Learning
Brunswick
About Brunswick
Brunswick Corporation is a leader in the marine industry, and we’re looking for people just like you to take part in the movement towards better boating for all. We rely on the thoughtful input of people from all backgrounds to create compelling, innovative products for our customers around the globe. As such, diversity, equity, and inclusion are priorities in the enduring culture of our company. As a world leader in emerging recreational products and technologies, when you join our team, you become part of some of the most innovative, forward-looking brands in the marine industry today.
Please see the Research Park Tenant Directory for more information. Brunswick – Research Park
About the Role
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
Due to the nature of the Lab, it is difficult to capture all the responsibilities and projects accurately. The following list is not exhaustive but alludes to the kinds of workflow that will be expected.
- 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.
Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets/experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way.
Requirements
- To be considered for the internship, candidates must have 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.
Preferred
- 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.
Working Conditions
- Learning Opportunities: Our Student Program is designed to provide hands-on experience in a professional setting. You will work alongside experienced professionals and get a chance to apply your academic knowledge to real-world tasks.
- Project Work: The work environment is supportive, collaborative, and conducive to learning. Student co-ops or interns typically work on specific projects or tasks that contribute to the organization’s goals. This may range from supporting larger projects to handling smaller, individual assignments.
- Hours: Co-ops and Interns are expected to work a full 40-hour work week
- Feedback and Performance Reviews: As a co-op or intern, you will receive feedback and performance reviews throughout your assignment. We value the importance for interns to understand their progress and areas for improvement.
The pay range for this position is $18.00 – $27.00 per hour. The actual hourly rate offered will vary depending on multiple factors including year in school/credits earned, degree, job-related knowledge/skills, relevant experience, business needs, and geographic location.
At Brunswick, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the salary range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the specifics of the candidate’s qualifications and the business context.
Whatever tomorrow brings, we’ll be at the leading edge. As the clear leader in the marine industry, we’re committed to our values and supporting our exceptional people. We offer valuable benefits including a competitive 401(k) plan with company match, health benefits, paid time off, a robust Wellness Program, and much more. In addition, we’re proud of being recognized for making a splash with numerous awards!
To apply, please use this link: Reinforcement Learning Intern