Engineering Technician, Cell Test, Abuse Test & Engineering

About the role

Engineering Technician, Cell Test, Abuse Test & Engineering | Tesla (Engineering & Information Technology)

Location: Palo Alto, California | Req ID: 284491 | Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

We are looking for a Test Technician to evaluate cell level safety performance during the early design stages across all programs, including vehicle and energy storage. In this role, you will be responsible for safely testing cells of all form factors (cylindrical, pouch and prismatic), developing new test methods and failure analysis techniques, organizing tests for smooth execution, improving test equipment and training technicians on new tests. As a result, Tesla will be able to rapidly evaluate and optimize a broad set of options for cell and pack designs.

Our environment is fast-paced and incredibly exciting, so being passionate and self-motivated to push your limits is critical. Our team works with groups across various disciplines and experience, requiring strong communication skills and a team-first mentality. We are looking for someone with an exceptional ability to solve problems in both individual and team settings.

What You'll Do

• Lead and conduct abuse tests on cells and related components under electrical, mechanical and thermal stresses to analyze safety performance and improve designs
• Collaborate with Engineers on technical reviews to ensure test plans meet safety requirements and test targets
• Plan test execution and manage logistics, both physically and digitally
• Design, fabricate, and modify test fixtures and equipment to evaluate early design iterations
• Improve test capability and efficiency by making continuous improvements to test methods, rigs, equipment and by communicating feedback to Engineers
• Conduct pre test measurements and post-test teardowns to evaluate failure modes of concern
• Contribute to writing Standard Operating Procedures and keeping them up to date
• Provide clear documentation of test setup, results, and teardown findings
• Train Technicians on new test methods and techniques, including developing standard operating procedures
• Perform periodic maintenance, calibration, and repairs

What You'll Bring

• Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in a lab, or field setting
• High awareness of safety hazards, procedures, and best practices
• Extensive hands-on experience with machining, and power tools
• Electrical and thermal fundamentals
• Creative problem-solving skills and experience
• Complex troubleshooting skills and experience
• Ability to perform independent work, self-starter
• Experience with data acquisition systems
• Ability to collaborate and build test rigs to specifications
• Flexibility to work in South Bay Area sites

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$24.40 - $56.40/hour + 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.