Sr. Automation Controls Engineer, Cell Engineering

About the role

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer, Cell Engineering | Tesla (Manufacturing)

Location: AUSTIN, Texas | Req ID: 263769 | Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

Automation Control Engineers specialize in designing and deploying high-speed mass manufacturing systems engineered for sub-millisecond scan rate and deterministic performance. This includes architecting and implementing ultra-precise automation solutions across process and discrete production lines while maintaining rigorous control standards for truly scalable systems.

We cover a huge range of machinery and process types include mixing, pulling, winding, calendering, stamping, etc. We also build and implement the material flow, coordination and optimization necessary to deliver manufacturing at a truly mass-production scale. From development, to commissioning and scaling, controls engineers enable the next generation of manufacturing.

What You'll Do

• Program and debug structure text and ladder logic code on multiple PLC controller platforms (Beckhoff, Siemens, Inovance)
• Develop code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable and reusable
• Create robust programs and sequences to control complex, multi-station machinery to perform processes such as material pick and place, dispense, fastening, welding, testing and material transport
• Design and optimize model predictive controllers, PID controllers and LQR controllers in high-speed manufacturing settings for process and discrete equipment
• Create intuitive operator touchscreen interfaces using WinCC/Ignition/TwinCAT HMI and SCADA dashboards screens using Ignition, Grafana
• Set up and tune servo drives and VFDs for fast and smooth operation (Schneider, B&R, Beckhoff, Siemens, SEW)
• Design and implement control reliable safety systems for safeguarding robots, gantries, conveyors, and other high-volume manufacturing equipment as per codes and standards
• Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, pneumatic and fluid plumbing
• Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and carefully balance product specifications, process requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead-time limits
• Manage suppliers during specification, design, buyoff and installation of automated manufacturing equipment

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Science or 5+ years’ experience in Control Systems Design and Implementation or equivalent experience
• Understanding of controls theory
• Understanding of electronics
• Fluency in at least one programming language, C++/C#/Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) preferred

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)