Robotics Physics Engine Development Engineer, Optimus

About the role

Robotics Physics Engine Development Engineer, Optimus | Tesla (Tesla SI)

Location: Palo Alto, California | Req ID: 274040 | Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

The Tesla Robotics Team is responsible for designing and developing humanoid bi-pedal robots (Optimus), that can perform tasks that are mundane, repetitive, and hazardous for humans. This endeavor requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise from mechanical, electrical, controls, software, and manufacturing engineering disciplines in a highly collaborative environment.

We are currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled Physics Engine Development Engineer/Scientist to accelerate the adoption of embodied artificial intelligence. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing complex physics and mathematical models, translating them into efficient algorithms for high-throughput simulation.

This individual will join a team of dedicated professionals who share a common goal of creating the world's most advanced physics engine, a critical component in the development of robust robot controllers and controller-hardware co-optimization. By leveraging their expertise, the ideal candidate will play a key role in driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in robotics and AI.

What You'll Do

• Develop physics-based high-fidelity simulation modules for robotics application, ensuring accurate and reliable modelling of complex systems
• Optimize simulation performance to achieve high throughput while preserving simulation fidelity
• Collaborate with training and hardware design team to minimize sim-to-real gap from all angles and perspectives

What You'll Bring

• Strong math/physics background with passion for coding
• Extensive experience in robotics physics engine development, supported by first-author publications or impactful projects
• Deep understanding of algorithm complexity and data structures
• Deep understanding of control theory
• Familiar with compiler principles and differentiable simulations
• Exceptional skills in C++, Python, CUDA, and GPU programming
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach to problem-solving

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$140,000 - $396,000/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.