Sr. Technical Program Manager, Data Operations, Optimus

About the role

Sr. Technical Program Manager, Data Operations, Optimus | Tesla (Tesla SI)

Location: Palo Alto, California | Req ID: 281592 | Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

We are looking for a Sr Data Operations Program Manager to own data operations for Tesla's Optimus program — the creation, scaling, and maintenance of the datasets that train our humanoid robot. You will stand up and run data collection programs, owning collection execution, site operations, logistics, and scale.

You will manage projects from start to finish, ensuring high quality, quantity, and diversity. Success means more usable data, faster, delivered from a growing network of locations without sacrificing quality or operational discipline.

What You'll Do

• Own end-to-end data collection programs, from planning and site standup through daily operations and scaled output
• Coordinating resources across Tesla work locations, resolving bottlenecks, and ensuring datasets meet SI requirements
• Build and scale repeatable collection operations at locations nationwide, including staffing, schedules, space, equipment, on-site workflows, and multi-site logistics (kit deployment, inventory, shipping, and site readiness)
• Create and run data validation checks to catch errors or inconsistencies; fix issues fast and build processes to prevent them from recurring
• Optimize collection for speed and scale without sacrificing quality, automate operational work, unblock sites, and drive process and tooling improvements that increase throughput and dataset diversity
• Translate dashboards and metrics into clear stakeholder updates on progress, what's working, and what isn't — then act on those insights
• Work with engineers, data collection operators, site leads, and local teams to communicate and prioritize data needs
• Travel to various locations to launch programs, audit operations, and transfer playbooks

What You'll Bring

• Experience standing up or scaling field, multi-site, or operational programs — logistics, site operations, or distributed collection is a strong plus
• Ability to rally teams, manage chaos, and hit deadlines without burning out yourself or your teammates
• Experience creating and maintaining dashboards that provide stakeholders with important insights
• Ability to thrive in high-pressure, fast-paced environments
• Experience with robotics, autonomous systems, or sensor data a plus
• Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a drive toward action
• Willingness to travel frequently to Tesla work locations across the country

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$144,800 - $217,200/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.