Manufacturing Engineer, Process & Equipment Development

Role Overview

Tesla is hiring a practical, hands-on Manufacturing Engineer in Palo Alto, California to own manufacturing systems from the earliest R&D prototype phase through process design, optimization, and scale-up for highly automated, high-volume production. The role focuses on creating and refining new processes and prototype equipment, then converting them into robust automation solutions that combine robotics, machine vision, precision mechatronics, and smart control systems.

You will be responsible for process development, equipment definition and qualification, line layout, vendor coordination, validation, technical handoff, and ongoing improvement. The work is highly cross-functional and involves close collaboration with Product Design, Controls, Quality, and Operations teams. Strong first-principles thinking, quick prototyping ability, and disciplined data-based execution are key to success.

Key Responsibilities

• Create workstations, manufacturing tools, equipment, and fixtures in-house to support early alpha and beta prototype builds.
• Identify, analyze, and document manufacturing constraints discovered during R&D so they can shape high-volume equipment design.
• Plan, specify, source, build, integrate, and launch automated assembly systems, robotics, inline vision tools, precision measurement systems, and end-of-line test equipment for medium- and high-volume production.
• Develop custom manufacturing methods and carry them from research stages into fully automated production.
• Design production workstations with a focus on ergonomics, efficiency, and throughput.
• Perform process studies, DOE, PFMEA, process flow mapping, control planning, line balancing, and capacity analysis.
• Work early with Product Design on DFM to influence product architecture for scalable manufacturing.
• Train technicians and line operators on new processes and equipment.
• Lead data-driven continuous improvement efforts aimed at increasing yield.
• Own project schedules and support technical transfer from development into steady-state manufacturing.

Requirements

• Background in developing mechanical equipment, tooling, and fixtures in a 3D CAD environment such as SolidWorks or CATIA.
• Practical experience building functional early-stage prototypes and temporary bridge tooling.
• Track record of moving new processes and equipment from prototype or low-volume settings into 24/7 high-volume automated manufacturing.
• Experience introducing new equipment and processes into an active production environment.
• Strong command of statistical analysis, root-cause methods, DOE, and process optimization approaches.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing principles, mechanical design fundamentals, and design for manufacturability.
• Strong cross-functional communication skills and the ability to manage technical requirements with overseas machine builders and suppliers.

Compensation & Benefits

The expected annual base pay for this role is $109,600 to $195,600. The total package may also include cash awards, stock awards, and additional benefits.

Full-time Tesla employees are eligible for benefits starting on day one of employment, including medical coverage with plan options that can have $0 payroll deduction, fertility/family-building/adoption/surrogacy support, dental and vision plans with $0 paycheck contribution options, HSA company contributions with qualifying medical coverage, FSA options, 401(k) matching, employee stock purchase plans, company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, employee assistance resources, sick and vacation time, paid holidays, backup childcare support, voluntary insurance options, wellness programs, commuter benefits, employee discounts, and other perks.

Additional Information

This position is based in Palo Alto, CA and is a full-time onsite role. Compensation may vary based on market location, relevant skills, job-related knowledge, and experience. Final participation details for benefit plans are provided in the event of an employment offer. Short-term disability includes a 90-day waiting period.