Internship, Mechanical Engineer, Cell Engineering (Spring 2027)

About the role

Tesla is seeking a Mechanical Design Intern to design and deploy specialized development equipment for our cutting-edge vehicle battery products. This role will help drive technological advancement in battery development while working closely with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Work on cross-functional teams with PM, Controls, manufacturing, and technicians to support and troubleshoot new and existing mechanical designs.
• Prepare 3D CAD models, detailed drawings, mechanical BOMs, safety documentation and various parts lists for use by other teams.
• Support mechanical builds, proof of principle assemblies and production machinery.
• Contribute to the development of Li-ion cell components and systems from concept through production launch and ramp.
• Prepare 3D CAD models, own basic analyses (FEA, Excel, MATLAB, scripting), prepare detailed drawings, manage mechanical BOMs, develop/author technical specifications, and drive research and experiments to advance Tesla’s internal knowledge base of cell design principles, failure modes, and development opportunities.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Proficient in 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred, CATIA, AutoCAD, 3DX).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Machining & Fabrication Experience: machining, rolling, welding, additive manufacturing, molding, extrusions.
• Proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience in some of the following: Malab, Python, CFD Packages, Structural FEA packages, statistical analysis (JMP, Minitab).
• Demonstrated experience in electromechanical design and analysis of tooling, equipment, and automation.
• Familiarity with international technical standards for machine design, equipment safety standards and practices (ANSI, NFPA, LOTO, OSHA).
• Basic knowledge of Lithium-ion battery cell and battery design.
• Experience with test design and setup, data acquisition and analysis.
• Strong technical communication skills.

Qualifications

• Strong academic background in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Experience in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).
• Hands-on experience in machining, fabrication, and assembly.
• Knowledge of GD&T and familiarity with battery design principles.
• Experience with FEA, Python, and statistical analysis tools.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Skills

• Proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Knowledge of battery design principles and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with FEA, Python, and statistical analysis tools.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Medical plans with $0 payroll deduction.
• Dental and vision plans with $0 payroll contribution.
• Company-paid Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• 401(k) and Employee Stock Purchase Plans.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Back-up childcare and parenting support resources.
• Voluntary benefits such as critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance.
• Employee discounts and perks program.

Pay

Expected Compensation: $20.00 - $50.00/hour + benefits. Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.