Simulation Engineer, Automation Development
Tesla · Brooklyn Park, MN · 1 mo ago
On-siteEngineeringFull-time
What You'll Do
- Perform initial concepting simulations to analyze equipment layouts, cost, cycle times, and throughput performance using FlexSim, optimizing variables such as space, labor, and material flow
- Develop detailed simulations of robot cells to evaluate placement, reach, paths, tooling, payloads, collision avoidance, and cycle times using Fanuc RoboGuide
- Build and maintain high-fidelity digital-twin simulations using Siemens Process Simulate to enable virtual commissioning of PLC control logic
- Synchronize simulation models with real-world PLC behavior (TIA Portal/PLCSIM or equivalent) to validate sequences, I/O signals, and safety systems prior to physical deployment
- Design and implement custom modules or objects within simulation software to support complex automation and material-flow scenarios
- Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, controls, and process engineers to translate simulation insights into actionable design improvements
- Generate simulation reports, validation videos, performance metrics, and digital-twin documentation to support stakeholder reviews and engineering signoffs
- Drive adoption of simulation best practices and virtual commissioning workflows to reduce physical prototyping costs and accelerate equipment ramp-up
- Challenge assumptions in manufacturing and automation designs, basing recommendations on first-principles analysis and data-driven optimization
What You'll Bring
- Engineering or equivalent experience
- 2+ years of hands-on experience in simulation engineering supporting industrial automation, custom equipment, or high-volume manufacturing projects
- Experience with FlexSim for discrete-event simulation, layout analysis, cycle-time evaluation, and throughput optimization
- Experience with Fanuc RoboGuide (or equivalent robotics simulation tools) for robot-cell modeling, offline path planning, reach studies, and cycle-time optimization
- Experience with Siemens Process Simulate (or equivalent digital-twin/virtual-commissioning platforms) for PLC logic validation and virtual commissioning
- Solid understanding of automation fundamentals, including robotics, material handling, conveyors, and control systems
- Experience interpreting CAD models, mechanical drawings, and basic PLC logic; ability to work effectively with cross-functional engineering teams
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on first-principles validation and quantitative decision-making
- Excellent communication skills to present complex simulation findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Experience with scripting for simulation automation (FlexScript, C++, Python, or VBA), CAD integration, or additional tools such as Emulate3D is a plus
Benefits
- Competitive pay
- Medical plans
- Fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits
- Dental and vision plans
- Health Savings Account contributions
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible spending accounts
- 401(k) with employer match
- Employee Stock Purchase Plans
- Voluntary benefits
- Commuter benefits
- Tesla Babies program
- Employee discounts and perks