Robotics Technical Program Manager, Optimus

About the role

• Robotics Technical Program Manager, Optimus | Tesla (Tesla SI)
• Location: Palo Alto, California | Req ID: 277027 | Job Type: Full-time
• What to Expect

Tesla is accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy and advanced robotics. Our Optimus program is pioneering humanoid robots to perform useful tasks, transforming industries from manufacturing to everyday assistance.

We're seeking a dynamic Program Manager to drive the Optimus program's success, from strategic deployment to factory scaling.As the Optimus Robot Program Manager, you will lead cross-functional teams to execute go-to-market strategies, oversee new factory development for robot production, and contribute to high-level program deliverables.

This role bridges engineering, operations, and market expansion, ensuring Optimus robots are deployed efficiently and at scale. You'll collaborate with teams in robotics design, AI, manufacturing, and supply chain to deliver innovative solutions that align with Tesla's mission.

What You'll Do

• Lead new factory development initiatives, from sourcing strategy to integration of robotic assembly lines, ensuring alignment with production timelines and cost targets
• Assist with larger program deliverables, such as milestone tracking, risk mitigation, and resource allocation across engineering, testing, and validation phases
• Coordinate cross-functional teams (e.g., hardware, software, AI, and operations) to resolve technical challenges and drive program execution from concept to commercialization
• Manage budgets, timelines, and stakeholder communications, providing regular updates to senior leadership on program status and key metrics
• Identify and mitigate risks in deployment and factory scaling, including supply chain disruptions, technical integration issues, and regulatory hurdles
• Foster innovation by exploring emerging technologies in robotics, AI, and automation to enhance Optimus capabilities and market readiness

What You'll Bring

• Degree in Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience (Master's degree preferred)
• 5+ years of experience in program management, preferably in robotics, automotive, or high-tech manufacturing environments
• Experience with factory development or scaling production facilities, including knowledge of automation, lean manufacturing, and supply chain optimization
• Strong technical acumen in robotics, AI, or mechatronics, with the ability to interface effectively between engineering and business teams
• Excellent project management skills, including tools like Jira, MS Project, or similar, with a focus on agile methodologies
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovative environment with ambiguity and evolving priorities
• Willingness to travel up to 25% for factory site visits, deployments, and team collaborations

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$104,000 - $234,000/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.