Mechanical Engineer, Tribology, Drive Systems

About the role

Mechanical Engineer, Tribology, Drive Systems | Tesla (Engineering & Information Technology)

Location: Palo Alto, California | Req ID: 285604 | Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

The Drive System Engineering team is seeking a versatile tribologist in the field of gearbox tribology simulation, tribological testing design, and tribological interface molecular modeling. You will bring an in-depth understanding of gearbox tribology simulation and various tribological testing methodologies. You are expected to optimize existing gearbox tribology models for Tesla drive units while creating new models to support future design projects.

Working side by side with engineers across disciplines, you will directly support the development of our world-class drive units. Projects can be open-ended, and you must thrive in a fast-paced, challenging environment.

We design drive units for Tesla. Our engineering teams operate with a non-conventional product development philosophy: high inter-disciplinary collaboration, a flat organizational structure, and technical contribution at all levels. You will be expected to challenge and be challenged, to create, and to innovate. We are not interested in traditional "me-too" or marginal design thinking — first principles-based fundamental thinking is key to succeeding at Tesla. You'll work alongside accomplished, world-renowned engineers on some of the most exciting automotive programs in existence today.

What You'll Do

• Optimize and innovate existing high-fidelity gearbox tribology models
• Build new models to derive healthy tribological conditions for hardware components and inform lubricant design
• Lead tribology lab through design of tribometer-level and drive-unit-level characterization testing primarily for validation of lubricants, coatings, and tribo-pairs
• Analyze the relationship between lubricant properties and hardware application requirements
• Define and understand system specifications and sensitivities relevant to tribological performance
• Organize and lead cross-functional teams to address system-level tribology challenges

What You'll Bring

• 2+ years of experience in tribological validation and simulation of various contact mechanics, with the ability to rapidly design tribological testing and build high-fidelity models that predict tribological conditions and drive hardware design decisions
• Working knowledge in lubricant design, preferably drive unit lubricants and/or greases, and gearbox lubrication
• Background in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or electrical engineering
• Proficiency with data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, Python)
• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in realted field
• Experience integrating AI/ML techniques into tribology simulation workflows
• Experience in 3D modeling (CATIA preferred)
• Modeling architecture experience
• Understanding of EIBD (Electrically Induced Bearing Damage) mechanisms and mitigation solutions

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$109,600 - $195,600/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.