Material Lab Technician, Megafactory

About the role

Tesla Energy is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Material Lab Technician to support materials quality control, testing, and laboratory operations for Megapack energy storage systems. This role is critical in ensuring the quality and performance of materials and components in high-volume production, with hands-on work spanning sample intake through report-out.

Responsibilities

• Perform quality control testing on incoming, in-process, and production samples for Megapack components
• Execute mechanical and materials testing (e.g., tensile, hardness, compression, electrical testing, profilometry) and document results
• Prepare test specimens using lab and machine shop equipment (CNC mills, manual lathes, metallographic cutters, grinders/polishers, bandsaws, hand tools)
• Conduct metallographic preparation and optical microscopy to evaluate microstructure, weld quality, and surface conditions
• Interpret test data, generate clear reports, and communicate conclusions to support quality and operations decisions
• Support instrument installation, calibration, method development, and test validation activities (e.g., MSA/GR&R)
• Maintain safe, organized lab operations: preventive maintenance/troubleshooting, 5S, consumables inventory, traceability, and SOP updates

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Chemistry, or related field; or equivalent experience
• 2+ years of experience in materials quality control, laboratory testing, machining, or manufacturing support
• Experience with materials/mechanical testing equipment (tensile, hardness, compression, and/or electrical testing)
• Demonstrated machine shop capability (e.g., metallographic cutter, angle grinder; CNC/lathe experience preferred)
• Working knowledge of QC practices, inspection methods, and specification-based testing; ability to learn new in-house methods quickly
• Proficiency with MS Office (Word/Excel/PowerPoint); experience with quality systems and/or LIMS preferred
• Fluency in English (written and verbal) for effective team communication and documentation, with the ability to wear PPE, including PAPR (powered air purifying respirator)

Benefits

• Medical plans with multiple options, including a plan with $0 payroll deduction
• Family-building, fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits
• Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, with options for $0 paycheck contribution
• Company-paid Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution when enrolled in the High-Deductible medical plan with HSA
• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits
• Company-paid Basic Life and AD&D insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance (90-day waiting period)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Sick and vacation time (flex time for salary positions, accrued hours for hourly positions), and paid holidays
• Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
• Voluntary benefits: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
• Weight loss and tobacco cessation programs
• Tesla Babies program
• Commuter benefits
• Employee discounts and perks program