Controls Design Engineer

About the role

• Controls Design Engineer | Tesla (Construction & Facilities)
• Location: Fremont, California | Req ID: 276695 | Job Type: Full-time
• What to Expect

Controls Design Engineer is responsible for the design, development, specification, and documentation of industrial automation, controls, and instrumentation systems. This role involves creating control system architectures, selecting and specifying devices and equipment, developing PLC/HMI/SCADA solutions, and producing complete design deliverables. This engineer will lead technical efforts across projects, ensure compliance with codes and standards, collaborates with cross-functional teams, and supports commissioning activities to deliver safe, reliable, and optimized control systems.

What You'll Do

• Design control systems and architectures, including integration of HMI, SCADA, PLC, VFDs, safety PLCs, network systems, and third-party packaged equipment
• Specify instrumentation, control devices, panels, hardware, and related equipment
• Produce all design deliverables, including drawings, models, and documentation, utilizing Revit and AutoCAD (control schematics, loop diagrams, network diagrams, panel layouts, installation details, and BIM coordination)
• Establish and maintain automation, controls, and instrumentation design standards and best practices. Lead automation scope definition, execution strategies, and technical decision-making across projects
• Oversee development and review of control philosophies, P&IDs, I/O lists, network architectures, logic designs, and related documents. Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, cybersecurity requirements, and safety regulations
• Work closely with process design teams to develop process control narratives and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) to ensure process systems operate safely and reliably
• Lead the development of greenfield PLC code with emphasis on organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable code. PLC applications will interface with packaged equipment, life-critical safety systems, VFDs, motor starters, valves, PID loops, HVAC systems, and third-party equipment
• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), equipment installation, commissioning, and startup activities (travel required as needed)
• Maintain accurate project documentation and ensure designs meet project requirements, timelines, and budgets

What You'll Bring

• Proven experience in controls/system design, PLC programming, and industrial automation (4+ years)
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit for producing electrical/controls design deliverables and BIM coordination
• Strong experience with PLC platforms (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent), HMI/SCADA systems (Ignition), and industrial networking
• Experience with safety systems (safety PLCs, SIL-rated devices) and functional safety standards.
• Experience developing control narratives, P&IDs, I/O lists, and system architectures
• Ability to travel for FATs, site installation, and commissioning
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and technical documentation skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities for cross-functional and stakeholder coordination

Benefits

Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

• Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction
• Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits
• Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contribution
• Company Paid (Health Savings Accounts) 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, AD&D
• 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 to include: 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
• Earned Wage Access: Real-time pay access paid daily, subject to eligibility and schedule (applicable for below Sr. Managers levels)

Expected Compensation$104,000 - $180,000/annual salary + cash and stock awards + benefitsPay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.