Machine Learning Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)
Role summary
ZeroEntropy is a well-funded Y Combinator startup building next-generation information retrieval technology for complex unstructured data. They are seeking a Machine Learning Engineering Intern for Summer 2026 to contribute to all phases of the development lifecycle, from research to deployment. The intern will create state-of-the-art ML models (LLMs, rerankers, embedding models), work on complex projects involving compilers, OS, and model optimization, and build scalable, low-latency infrastructure using Rust and Kubernetes. The role requires proficiency in multiple programming languages (Rust, C/C++, Python, SML/OCaml, Assembly) and a deep understanding of computer science fundamentals, mathematics, and low-level technologies. The internship is based in San Francisco.
_ZeroEntropy is building next-generation technology for information retrieval over complex unstructured data._
_We are a team of engineers and scientists from Berkeley, CMU, Ecole Polytechnique, USACO, and have become experts in information retrieval technologies._
_We are a well funded startup out of Y Combinator, and have already gained great traction in the last few months._
_We are looking for a highly skilled intern developer to join us on our mission to build the future of search._
### **What you will work on:**
* Contribute to all phases of the development lifecycle, from theoretical research to deployment.
* Create state-of-the-art ML models, including LLMs for information retrieval, rerankers, embedding models, etc.
* Work autonomously on complex projects involving compilers, OS-level work, assembly, but also model architecture, training optimization, and more.
* Create scalable and low-latency infrastructure for a state-of-the-art search engine / database using Rust and k8s.
* Talk to customers to understand their needs, and improve on the technology to meet them.
### **Requirements:**
* Proficiency in Rust/C/C++, Python, SML/OCaml, Assembly.
* Deep understanding of the tech stack down to the metal, including experience with assembly, EVM, graphics shaders, CUDA, or kernel work.
* Deep understanding of theoretical foundations in mathematics and computer science, including combinatorics/number theory/abstract algebra.
* Solid grasp of computer science fundamentals like algorithms, data structures, and time complexity, but also knowledge of functional programming concepts like map, filter, and reduce.
* Familiarity with software design principles and best practices.
* Experience or willingness to learn about scalability technologies like AWS/Azure, Docker, and Kubernetes.
* Bonus: any background in math/programming competitions.
### **About the internship**
* Based in person in San Francisco.
* Small startup where you’ll be working closely with both founders, and exceptionally gifted interns already joining us for the summer.