Mechanical Design Engineer, Automated Test Equipment

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated, hands‑on Mechanical Design Engineer to join our Manufacturing Test Engineering group as part of Tesla’s “machine that builds the machine”. The team defines quality, reliability, and performance of Tesla’s core technologies, designing robust, data‑centric test systems for power electronics used across Tesla Energy, Charging, and Vehicle platforms. The role demands strong analytical capability, exceptional organization, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment. Flexibility and willingness to travel domestically and internationally to support equipment development, deployment, and collaboration with global teams are required. Final leveling will be determined after the interview process based on experience and qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Architect automated test equipment, produce detailed CAD models, pneumatic diagrams, and verify designs using structural and thermal FEA and CFD.
• Conceptual equipment development while balancing product specifications, process requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead‑time limits.
• Identify opportunities and implement improvements in performance, robustness, and ease of assembly.
• Analyze system constraints and propose innovative solutions.
• Support building, debugging, validation, and equipment duplication efforts; fine‑tune equipment for release to production.
• Conduct detailed testing and validation of installed machinery to ensure robustness and quality.
• Perform on‑site and off‑site acceptance testing (SAT/FAT) of test equipment.

Requirements

• 2+ years of experience as a Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineer with focus on automation, machine design, robotics, and product development.
• Experience transitioning products and processes from prototype to production.
• Knowledge of solid mechanics, pneumatics, hydraulics, dynamics, material selection, prototyping, testing methods, everyday machining, and fabrication processes.
• Exposure to sensors, microcontrollers, robots, and relays.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks, PDM, ANSYS, or similar CAD/CAE software.
• Experience on student engineering teams (e.g., BAJA, Formula SAE) is a plus.
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent practical experience.

Benefits

• Competitive pay.
• Medical plans with $0 payroll deduction options.
• Family‑building, fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits.
• Dental (including orthodontic) and vision plans with $0 paycheck contribution options.
• Company‑paid Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions for high‑deductible medical plans.
• 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, AD&D, short‑term and long‑term disability insurance (90‑day waiting period).
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Sick and vacation time (flex time for salaried 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, pet insurance.
• Weight loss and tobacco cessation programs.
• Tesla Babies program.
• Commuter benefits.
• Employee discounts and perks program.