Google PhD Internship 2026 – Software & Site Reliability Engineering

The Google Internship 2026 offers 12–14 weeks of paid, full-time experience for PhD students in Computer Science and related fields. This highly competitive program places interns in either Software Engineering or Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) roles, where they contribute to real projects critical to Google’s operations.

Interns will:

• Gain professional and personal development through mentorship and an executive speaker series.
• Work on scalable, distributed software systems or infrastructure for global services.
• Join a global community of innovators working to advance the state of the art in AI, systems, and large-scale computing.

Application Timeline

• Applications open: Rolling basis (apply early for best consideration)
• Anticipated deadline: February 27, 2026 (may close sooner if all projects are filled)
• Review period: Applications may take 90+ days for feedback.
• Program start: Summer 2026 (US-based only)

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum qualifications:

• Enrolled in a PhD program in Computer Science or related technical field.
• Strong coding skills in C, C++, Java, or Python.
• Ability to work from the United States for the program duration.
• Proficiency in English.

Preferred qualifications:

• In penultimate academic year (returning to studies after internship).
• Experience in research fields: Algorithms, AI, Machine Learning, Systems, Databases, Distributed Systems, Networking, or Architecture.
• Background in data structures, algorithms, and software design.
• Availability for 12 weeks full-time outside academic terms.

Internship Roles

Software Engineering Intern

• Develop scalable software systems.
• Design, test, deploy, and maintain solutions.
• Work on projects from Google Ads to YouTube, Android, AI systems, and beyond.

Site Reliability Engineering Intern

• Build, maintain, and scale mission-critical systems.
• Automate infrastructure and resolve anomalies in real time.
• Ensure reliability and performance at internet scale.

Compensation & Benefits

• US base salary range: $113,000–$150,000 (annualized estimate)
• Excludes bonuses, equity, and additional benefits.
• Benefits include healthcare, wellness programs, and community-building activities.

Application Process

1. Resume (CV): Upload updated CV with anticipated graduation date (MM/YY).
2. Transcript: Attach current or recent official/unofficial transcript in English.
3. Application Portal: Submit materials online (PDFs preferred).
4. Indicate preferred working location (choices across 20+ US cities, including Mountain View, New York, Seattle, San Francisco, and others).

Fair Chance Employment

Google complies with California Fair Chance Ordinances (Los Angeles & San Francisco). Applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered fairly.

Why Apply?

• Work on cutting-edge technologies impacting billions globally.
• Join a prestigious global brand in innovation.
• Collaborate with leading researchers and engineers.
• Gain exposure to executive leadership and potential career pathways at Google.