Manufacturing Controls Development Engineer, Optimus Virtual Commissioning

About the role

Manufacturing Controls Development Engineer, Optimus Virtual Commissioning | Tesla (Manufacturing)

Location: AUSTIN, Texas | Req ID: 285515 | Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

The Virtual Commissioning Engineer develops and deploys high‑fidelity simulation and virtual commissioning environments to validate automated equipment, PLC logic, motion control, and system behavior prior to commissioning.

You will integrate complex virtual environments with real‑time control systems, execute model‑in‑loop and hardware‑in‑loop testing, build reusable component libraries, and guide engineering workflows with industry leading virtual commissioning tools.

Virtual commissioning encompasses controls engineering, simulation, automation, and industrial robotics, requiring the Virtual Commissioning Engineer to collaborate across teams and possess a robust understanding of the industrial automation development process. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable with PLC logic and with simulation or virtual commissioning development.

What You'll Do

• Develop 2D/3D and simulation environments and digital twins for automated machinery and industrial equipment to validate PLC, HMI, and supervisory system interactions within a virtual commissioning environment
• Build and validate MIL (model‑in‑loop), SIL (software‑in‑loop), and HIL (hardware‑in‑loop) test setups for PLC‑controlled systems
• Create and maintain simulation/VC component libraries representing automation hardware and controllers
• Conduct virtual equipment buyoffs and pre‑startup validation to reduce onsite commissioning time
• Work cross‑functionally with controls, automation, mechanical, and software teams to ensure simulation models support design decisions, code validation, and commissioning readiness
• Review simulation/commissioning data with integrators or internal engineers to confirm conformance to requirements and functional standards
• Document simulation approaches, model architecture, modeling assumptions, validation methods, and commissioning workflows for global reuse
• Develop standards to direct internal and external teams on virtual commissioning requirements and workflows for efficient and effective use
• Work with virtual commissioning software suppliers to review and utilize the latest industry tools and platforms
• Create automated test frameworks to validate logic behavior before deployment. Also create tools to automate environment development

What You'll Bring

• 5+ years of proficiency in PLC programming (Rockwell, Siemens,) with a focus on structured, reusable, and documented code for integration with injection molding machines, robots, conveyors, and MES systems
• Experience with industrial network protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP,Varan) and integration across control layers (field devices to MES)
• Strong understanding of mechatronic system integration, including motor controllers, servo drives, and sensor feedback loops in automated production lines
• Exposure programming robots online and offline – Fanuc, Kuka, and ABB are the primary brands used in the factory
• Familiarity with IMM auxiliary systems including dryers, blenders,TCU,PUR systems material conveyors, and robotic part handling integration
• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, or Controls Engineering, or equivalent experience

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)