Data Engineer Intern Internships
Data engineer intern internships give university students, recent graduates, and early-career switchers hands-on project experience, mentorship from working engineers, and, at many employers, a path toward a full-time offer. Technology & Software lead in internship volume, with TikTok, ByteDance, and Meta among the employers posting roles now.
Find Data Engineer Intern InternshipsOverview
Showing 5 of 59+ Data Engineer Intern Internships
About Firework
Join Firework – Where Innovation Meets Impact
Firework is redefining the future of commerce as an AI and video commerce company — combining cutting-edge technology, an exclusive network of enterprise brands and retailers, and a first-mover position to win the agentic commerce race.
We've built the world's most advanced and largest video commerce platform, trusted by global brands and leading retailers. But we're more than software — our compounding network effect grows stronger with every partner we add, bringing the energy of in-store experiences online and transforming how businesses engage, convert, and build lasting customer relationships at scale.
Having raised over $235M to date, led by investors such as SoftBank Vision Fund 2, and operating at global scale, we offer unparalleled opportunities to solve complex challenges and drive meaningful impact in the future of connected commerce.
If you're curious, ambitious, and energized by big ideas — Firework is the place to grow, lead, and shape what comes next. Together.
Summary
We are seeking a motivated and curious Data Engineer Intern to join our engineering team and gain hands-on experience building and maintaining data infrastructure. In this role, you will work alongside experienced engineers to support the development of data pipelines, data processing systems, and analytics tools that power business intelligence, product development, and data-driven decision-making across the organization.
The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in programming and data concepts, enjoys solving technical challenges, and is eager to learn about modern data engineering technologies and best practices.
This internship offers an opportunity to work on meaningful projects, gain exposure to real-world data systems, and develop technical skills in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
What you'll be doing
Assist in designing, developing, and maintaining data pipelines and infrastructure that support analytics, business intelligence, and machine learning applications
Support the development of ETL/ELT processes to collect, transform, and organize data from various sources
Write and optimize SQL queries and Python scripts to support data processing, reporting, and analysis
Collaborate with data engineers, software engineers, and analytics teams to improve data accessibility, quality, and reliability
Help build and maintain data tools and dashboards that provide actionable insights into business and product performance
Gain hands-on experience with cloud-based data infrastructure, data warehouses, and modern data processing technologies
Assist in troubleshooting data pipeline issues, identifying performance improvements, and implementing solutions with guidance from senior engineers
Participate in code reviews, technical discussions, and team meetings while learning engineering best practices
Document data processes, workflows, and technical solutions to support ongoing development and knowledge sharing
We'll be excited if you have
Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or a related technical field
Foundational knowledge of Python and SQL, including experience writing queries, manipulating data, or developing scripts through coursework, projects, or internships
Basic understanding of databases, data structures, and data processing concepts
Familiarity with ETL/ELT processes, data pipelines, or data warehousing concepts
Interest in learning modern AI and data technologies such as Claude, Snowflake, BigQuery, Apache Spark, Flink, or Apache Airflow
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and a willingness to learn
Good communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment
A proactive attitude, intellectual curiosity, and enthusiasm for working with data and emerging technologies
Previous technical projects, relevant coursework, or internship experience in data engineering, software development, or analytics is a plus, but not required
Location
The role is on-site and we are looking for candidates in the Bay Area who can go to the San Mateo office.
Compensation
The following represents the expected range of compensation for this role: The estimated pay range for this role is $20-$25 per hour.
The posted pay range represents the anticipated low and high end of the compensation for this position and is subject to change based on business need. To determine a successful candidate’s starting pay, we carefully consider a variety of factors, including primary work location, an evaluation of the candidate’s skills and experience, market demands, and internal parity. Candidates may receive more information from the talent partner.
Don’t hold back
We understand some candidates may see the above and not apply because they don’t meet all the qualifications. We encourage you to apply anyway; we often find talented candidates that fit many other opportunities we have and look for potential too, not just what you did in the past. As an equal employment opportunity employer, we are a diverse team that strives for an inclusive environment for all. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
About Firework
Join Firework – Where Innovation Meets Impact
Firework is redefining the future of commerce as an AI and video commerce company — combining cutting-edge technology, an exclusive network of enterprise brands and retailers, and a first-mover position to win the agentic commerce race.
We've built the world's most advanced and largest video commerce platform, trusted by global brands and leading retailers. But we're more than software — our compounding network effect grows stronger with every partner we add, bringing the energy of in-store experiences online and transforming how businesses engage, convert, and build lasting customer relationships at scale.
Having raised over $235M to date, led by investors such as SoftBank Vision Fund 2, and operating at global scale, we offer unparalleled opportunities to solve complex challenges and drive meaningful impact in the future of connected commerce.
If you're curious, ambitious, and energized by big ideas — Firework is the place to grow, lead, and shape what comes next. Together.
Summary
We are seeking a motivated and curious Data Engineer Intern to join our engineering team and gain hands-on experience building and maintaining data infrastructure. In this role, you will work alongside experienced engineers to support the development of data pipelines, data processing systems, and analytics tools that power business intelligence, product development, and data-driven decision-making across the organization.
The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in programming and data concepts, enjoys solving technical challenges, and is eager to learn about modern data engineering technologies and best practices.
This internship offers an opportunity to work on meaningful projects, gain exposure to real-world data systems, and develop technical skills in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
What you'll be doing
Assist in designing, developing, and maintaining data pipelines and infrastructure that support analytics, business intelligence, and machine learning applications
Support the development of ETL/ELT processes to collect, transform, and organize data from various sources
Write and optimize SQL queries and Python scripts to support data processing, reporting, and analysis
Collaborate with data engineers, software engineers, and analytics teams to improve data accessibility, quality, and reliability
Help build and maintain data tools and dashboards that provide actionable insights into business and product performance
Gain hands-on experience with cloud-based data infrastructure, data warehouses, and modern data processing technologies
Assist in troubleshooting data pipeline issues, identifying performance improvements, and implementing solutions with guidance from senior engineers
Participate in code reviews, technical discussions, and team meetings while learning engineering best practices
Document data processes, workflows, and technical solutions to support ongoing development and knowledge sharing
We'll be excited if you have
Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or a related technical field
Foundational knowledge of Python and SQL, including experience writing queries, manipulating data, or developing scripts through coursework, projects, or internships
Basic understanding of databases, data structures, and data processing concepts
Familiarity with ETL/ELT processes, data pipelines, or data warehousing concepts
Interest in learning modern AI and data technologies such as Claude, Snowflake, BigQuery, Apache Spark, Flink, or Apache Airflow
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and a willingness to learn
Good communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment
A proactive attitude, intellectual curiosity, and enthusiasm for working with data and emerging technologies
Previous technical projects, relevant coursework, or internship experience in data engineering, software development, or analytics is a plus, but not required
Location
The role is on-site and we are looking for candidates in the Bay Area who can go to the San Mateo office.
Compensation
The following represents the expected range of compensation for this role: The estimated pay range for this role is $20-$25 per hour.
The posted pay range represents the anticipated low and high end of the compensation for this position and is subject to change based on business need. To determine a successful candidate’s starting pay, we carefully consider a variety of factors, including primary work location, an evaluation of the candidate’s skills and experience, market demands, and internal parity. Candidates may receive more information from the talent partner.
Don’t hold back
We understand some candidates may see the above and not apply because they don’t meet all the qualifications. We encourage you to apply anyway; we often find talented candidates that fit many other opportunities we have and look for potential too, not just what you did in the past. As an equal employment opportunity employer, we are a diverse team that strives for an inclusive environment for all. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
Data Engineer Intern Internship Market
Who's Hiring
- TikTok14
- ByteDance7
- Meta3
- The Hartford2
- CNH Industrial2
Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software
Tips for Your Data Engineer Intern Internship Search
Apply in the fall for summer internships
Large employers, especially in tech and finance, open summer data engineer intern cohort applications as early as August or September of the preceding year. Smaller companies and co-op programs post closer to start dates. Set a reminder to check listings each fall so you don't miss the structured program deadlines that matter most.
Build a portfolio before you send a single application
Hiring teams reviewing data engineer intern candidates want something concrete to assess. Complete two or three end-to-end projects using Python, SQL, or a cloud data platform, document your approach, and publish the code on GitHub. A linked repository or case write-up gives a recruiter more signal than a list of coursework alone.
Work your campus network and apply directly at the same time
Career fairs surface structured internship programs tied to your university, and professors or career center staff often know which employers recruit from your school before roles post publicly. Applying directly to companies running smaller cohorts alongside campus activity widens the pool you reach and prevents you from relying on a single channel.
Practice your technical screen out loud before you apply
Data engineer intern interviews typically include a coding screen covering SQL, data modeling, or Python scripting, sometimes alongside a system design or data pipeline question. Practice solving problems out loud, explaining your reasoning as you go, because interviewers weigh how you think through a problem as much as the final answer you reach.
Target structured rotational and university programs early
Many large employers run dedicated data engineering internship cohorts designed to train candidates new to the field. These programs recruit in the first wave of their hiring cycle and fill fast. Identify the structured programs at companies you want to join, note their application windows, and apply in the first week they open.
Set your work-type filter before you start searching
On-site roles are 74% of the data engineer intern internships listed here. Decide what you can realistically commit to before you start reviewing listings, then filter by location and work type so you're not spending time on roles you can't take. Migrate Mate's work-type filter lets you narrow the results immediately.
Data Engineer Intern Internships: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a data engineer intern internship?
Lead with coursework and personal projects rather than work history, because hiring teams expect limited experience at the intern level. Build a portfolio with documented pipelines, data models, or analyses using tools like Python, SQL, or Spark and link the code or write-ups so recruiters can assess your work directly. Combine direct applications with campus career fairs, where recruiters often move faster for students they meet in person.
Can a data engineer intern internship turn into a full-time job?
Many employers extend return offers to strong interns, but conversion is never guaranteed. What actually drives it for data engineer intern interns is consistent performance on real project work, open headcount on the team at the end of the summer, and the employer's return-offer timeline. Deliver on your assigned work, ask for feedback early, and treat the internship as an extended audition without counting on the outcome.
When should I apply for data engineer intern internships?
Earlier than most students expect. Large tech and finance employers open summer internship applications the preceding fall, sometimes as early as August or September. Smaller companies and co-op programs post closer to their actual start dates, so openings appear year-round. Checking listings regularly and applying as soon as a role opens gives you the best chance at structured cohort programs, which fill on a rolling basis.
Are data engineer intern internships paid?
Most professional data engineer intern internships in the United States are paid. Compensation varies by company size, industry, and location, and the specific amount differs widely across employers. Where an employer discloses pay, it appears in the listing, so you can compare opportunities as you search.
What should a data engineer intern internship resume include?
Lead with two or three complete, documented projects rather than work history. For data engineer intern candidates, that means listing the tools you used (Python, SQL, Spark, dbt, cloud platforms) and linking the GitHub repository or published analysis so reviewers can see the actual work. Add relevant coursework in databases, distributed systems, or data modeling, and keep the whole document to one page.
Are there remote data engineer intern internships?
Yes. Remote and hybrid roles make up 26% of the data engineer intern internship listings here, with the rest on-site. Remote cohorts fill fast because they attract applicants from across the country, so apply early and filter by work type to see them before spots close.
Can international students get data engineer intern internships?
Yes. F-1 students can intern through CPT while enrolled or through OPT work authorization after finishing a degree, and the employer does not have to file anything for either, so many companies are open to international interns. Confirm your eligibility and timing with your university's international student office before accepting an offer.
See All 59 Data Engineer Intern Internship Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Data Engineer Intern Internships