In the Abuse Testing & Engineering group, we push battery systems to their limits and beyond using specialized equipment to apply electrical, mechanical, and thermal stresses. Our goal is to provide rapid feedback to inform designs early in development, by understanding how robust systems perform under abusive conditions. We accommodate external regulations but have a strong focus on internal requirements and testing to failure. Every Tesla battery product comes through our lab, both vehicles and energy storage. Our environment is fast-paced and incredibly exciting.
We are looking for a manager to lead a team of engineers and technicians designing custom test equipment, facilities, and data tools. The ideal candidate is both an effective people manager and technically excellent, contributing directly and through their team. Due to the destructive nature of abuse tests, a strong emphasis on safety is essential. Success in this role involves rapid design and assembly of equipment that is reliable under extreme conditions and an open-minded approach to new test methods across a variety of battery cells, modules, and packs.
- Assume accountability for all Bay Area abuse test equipment and facilities, including resource planning and prioritization
- Manage ~10 engineers and technicians, maintaining strong relationships with internal customers
- Oversee concurrent facilities upgrades to Bay Area labs, working with design and construction teams to deliver unparalleled capability on Tesla timelines
- Oversee abuse data tools including custom database and data processing (SQL, Python), productivity tracking (Python, Tableau), hardware control scripts (PLC, Labview), and web interface (React, Javascript, Django)
- Develop and maintain charging systems for cells, modules, and packs, collaborating with internal firmware teams as needed
- Support test operations team on immediate escalations for test equipment issues
- Serve as a major advocate for lab safety, ideally including pressure blast analysis / design
- Maintain a high level of professionalism and cleanliness within the team and lab
- Ensure rigorous documentation of equipment and processes
- Demonstrated ability to lead a team to overcome technical challenges
- 5+ years’ experience in a lab environment with mechanical and electrical issues
- Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in Engineering field (such as Mechanical, Electrical or Chemical)
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with a variety of internal customers and support teams
- Strong focus on safety in an unstructured environment
- Experience with battery cells or packs is a plus
- Experience with software tools is a plus
- Experience with lab construction or upgrades is a plus
Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:
- Aetna PPO and HSA plans > 2 medical 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 Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Aetna medical plan with HSA
- Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- LGBTQ+ care concierge services
- 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
- Employee Assistance Program
- Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary 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
$96,000 - $228,000/annual salary + cash and stock awards + benefits
Pay 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.
