Firmware & Embedded Development: Internship Opportunities

Overview
The Microsoft Applied Sciences Group incubates disruptive technologies for Microsoft's next‑gen hardware products and is working on several exciting projects that shape how people and computers interact. The team works closely with research and product groups to bring compelling new experiences to the market. Many of these efforts rely on cutting‑edge hardware – and as part of this team, you will have the unique opportunity to work with a wide range of high-end devices.

Firmware & Embedded Systems Internship opportunity to join our team for a 4‑month on-site internship starting February/March 2026 in Belgrade, Serbia. In this role, you will work on haptic systems and evaluation of the same, covering project scoping, device design, implementation, and documentation. You will work under the guidance of experienced mentors on a world-class hardware team, and the prototype you build is expected to contribute to a future of haptic technology – giving you a chance to make a direct impact on the industry.

This internship offers mentorship from seasoned engineers and the chance to collaborate with a world-class team on a project with tangible industry impact. You'll gain experience in end-to-end device development — from initial concept to prototype — and contribute to technology that could set new standards in haptics. If you're excited by the prospect of pushing hardware boundaries and building the future of touch technology, we'd love to hear from you

Microsoft's mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees, we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Work with your mentor and team to define the scope and requirements for a haptic system project.
• Design and implement embedded firmware (C/C++) and hardware components for scoped devices.
• Integrate and utilize sensors (IMUs and others) to measure and analyze data.
• Test, iterate, and refine prototypes to ensure reliable performance and data accuracy.
• Document the design, development process, and results to support future efforts.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or nearing completion of a master's degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Programming: Proficiency in C/C++ programming for embedded systems.
• Hardware Experience: Familiarity with microcontrollers and sensors (especially inertial measurement units – IMUs) for motion/vibration sensing.
• Ability to work with control and measuring instruments (multimeter, oscilloscope, log analyzer, etc.).
• Proficiency in some scripting programming language (Python for example).
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a hands-on approach to engineering challenges.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work both independently and in a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Electronics: Experience with PCB design and hardware prototyping.
• Mechanical Design: Familiarity with CAD tools and mechanical design for device enclosures or components.
• Additional: Enthusiasm for learning new technologies, and a passion for innovation in hardware development.

This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about
requesting accommodations.