Technical Engineering Lead, Material Flow

About the role

• Technical Engineering Lead, Material Flow | Tesla (Manufacturing)
• Location: AUSTIN, Texas | Req ID: 265376 | Job Type: Full-time
• What to Expect

Tesla is seeking a highly motivated and accomplished technical leader to lead the design and implementation of automated material handling systems for new and existing factories. This is an Engineering role within Tesla’s Cell Manufacturing organization, based at Gigafactory Texas (GFTX) in Austin. You’ll join a fast-paced, high-impact team at the forefront of advanced manufacturing, driving innovation in one of the most ambitious industrial projects of our time.

The Material Flow Engineering (MFE) team develops cutting-edge solutions to ensure the efficient, reliable, and scalable flow of materials across battery cell production lines. As an engineer, you will not only deliver world-class technical solutions but also lead and mentor a team of 4+ engineers, setting the technical vision, managing execution, and fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and accountability.

What You'll Do

• Lead a team of 4+ engineers providing technical direction, performance feedback, and career development support
• Own end-to-end delivery of automated material handling systems—from concept through commissioning—ensuring alignment with Tesla’s manufacturing goals and technical standards
• Drive innovation in material flow strategies using advanced technologies: automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), conveyance, mobile robotics (AGVs/AMRs), robotic handling, and automated lift systems
• Develop analytical models and simulations to define system performance benchmarks, validate design choices, and support data-driven decision-making
• Collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing engineering, factory layout, construction, process engineering, and production teams to align material flow with broader operational objectives
• Manage project timelines, budgets, vendor relationships, and risk mitigation—ensuring on-time, high-quality delivery in a dynamic environment
• Mentor junior engineers, foster technical growth, and promote a culture of continuous improvement and ownership
• Champion system optimization by analyzing performance data and implementing scalable enhancements
• Define and execute strategic plans that advance program goals, technical maturity, and long-term scalability

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical, or related field) or equivalent experience
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in automated material handling and process equipment design, with a focus on automotive, semiconductor, consumer goods, or advanced manufacturing
• Proven experience leading a team of 3–6 engineers—including setting goals, managing workloads, conducting performance reviews, and supporting professional development
• Deep expertise in material handling technologies: ASRS, conveyors, AGVs/AMRs, robotic systems, and automated lifts
• Proficiency in CAD tools (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar) for system modeling, layout design, and technical documentation
• Demonstrated success leading complex, multi-phase projects from concept to production handover
• Strong analytical mindset with a data-driven approach to problem-solving and decision-making
• Exceptional communication skills—able to articulate technical strategy, trade-offs, and progress to engineers, managers, and executives at all levels
• 7+ years of experience in automated material handling and manufacturing systems

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)