Intern - Engineering - 2026 at Forward Networks in Santa Clara, CA

Forward Networks is transforming how the world’s most complex networks are managed and secured. Founded in 2013 by four Stanford Ph.D.s, we built the industry’s first network digital twin — a mathematically precise model of the production network that gives IT teams unmatched visibility, verification, and agility across every major cloud and vendor environment.

Our customers include global leaders such as Goldman Sachs, PayPal, S&P Global, IBM, and Dell, as well as fast-growing enterprises and government agencies. According to IDC, Forward Networks customers realize an average of $14.2 million in annual benefits through improved efficiency and security.

Backed by world-class investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Goldman Sachs, MSD Partners, and Threshold Ventures, Forward Networks offers a people-centric, innovative culture where brilliant minds are shaping the future of network reliability, security, and AI-ready operations.

About the Role

As a Software Engineer Intern at Forward Networks, you will collaborate closely with senior engineers and contribute meaningful, production-ready solutions. You’ll gain hands-on experience across systems and technologies while building skills in design, implementation, and testing. Each intern is supported by a dedicated manager, and every project is aligned with the team’s roadmap to ensure real impact.

What You’ll Do

• Develop high-performance, reliable, testable and maintainable code.
• Contribute to all stages of development from initial design and coding to thorough testing, code reviews, and comprehensive API documentation.
• Collaborate with engineers and participate in daily or weekly stand ups and meetings.
• Grow with the support of your team and help others on the team grow by providing thoughtful feedback and uplifting those around you.
• Execute tasks both independently and as part of a collaborative team, ensuring clear, positive, and professional communication throughout the development cycle.
• Additional responsibilities as needed based on the specific role or team

What You Need To Succeed

• Rising senior enrolled full time and pursuing a Bachelor's or Master’s in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience 
• Previous related experience in software engineering (applicable coursework, projects, internships, etc.)
• Proficiency and experience with at least one or more of the following: Java, C++, JavaScript, Python
• Familiar with the software development lifecycle - designing, developing, deploying, and maintaining applications
• Results-oriented, with ability and interest in learning new technologies and adapting quickly to new requirements and environments
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; can effectively articulate complex ideas and influence others through well-reasoned explanations.

Internship is based in Santa Clara, onsite, full-time (minimum 3 months)

Internship hourly rates are set at a standard pay of $40 per hour.