Robotics Engineering Technician, Mechanical Prototype Testing, Optimus

About the role

Robotics Engineering Technician, Mechanical Prototype Testing, Optimus | Tesla (Tesla SI)

Location: Palo Alto, California | Req ID: 255148 | Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

The Optimus Mechanical Design team is seeking an Engineering Technician to support our prototype testing and engineering development. This hand-on role will involve building prototypes, conducting failure analysis, and running tests across a wide range of components—from large-scale limb structures to intricate mechanical and electrical systems in robotic hands. You will be self-sufficient and report directly to the Mechanical Design Engineering Manager.

What You'll Do

• Build and assemble mechanical prototypes, ranging from large limb structures to fine-scale components such as electronics and articulated mechanisms in robotic hands
• Utilize fabrication techniques such as 3D printing, machining, hand working, and soldering for both structural and precision components
• Conduct comprehensive mechanical/electrical testing and failure analysis, culminating in detailed documentation/reports provided to the engineering team
• Design, fabricate, and modify test fixtures and equipment to support assembly, testing, and maintenance/repair
• Develop standard operating procedures for assembly and maintenance/repair, documenting instructions with thoroughness and clarity
• Maintain detailed documentation of build processes, test results, failure analyses, and general project management using applications like Confluence or Jira
• Maintain a high standard of organization and safety in the lab, including inventory management, tooling, and equipment maintenance
• You may travel to support development and manufacturing activities across the Bay Area and/or global Tesla facilities for up to a week or more per month
• Have flexibility on working hours including occasional nights and weekends
• Flex your support to other teams including fleet service during downtime or according to business needs

What You'll Bring

• Associate's Degree or technical certification in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electronics, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• 2+ years of experience as an engineering technician or in a similar role, with a focus on prototyping, testing, and failure analysis in robotics, automotive, or manufacturing environments
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and deliver micron-level tolerance assemblies with little guidance
• Familiar with easy lathe or milling operations, CNC programming skills a plus
• Basic programming/scripting experience (Python) a plus
• Strong hands-on skills with mechanical and electrical tools, including calipers, micrometers, multimeters, oscilloscopes, 3D printers, and machining equipment
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and basic electrical troubleshooting or programming (e.g., for sensor integration or automation scripting)
• Excellent problem-solving abilities, with a knack for conducting root cause analysis and interpreting test data
• Ability to work independently or collaboratively in a team, with strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Physical capability and willingness to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in a lab setting with exposure to machinery, noise, or dust

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.