Tesla is looking for a highly motivated process development technician for supporting the Engineering Staff in the development and production of lab and pilot scale advanced energy storage technology projects and programs. The position is very hands-on and centers on setup & operation of benchtop and pilot calendaring equipment used to produce electrode films for energy storage devices. The successful candidate will work with and take directions from engineers in the research group, supporting the overall objectives of the development program.
A wide range of activities will make up this role with hands-on work being a dominant portion of the job. Attention to detail, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to execute independently will be essential. Exceptional communication abilities and the adaptability to engage with cross-functional technical teams are imperative.
The battery cell is a critical component in Tesla vehicles and storage systems. This role will have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to our core products. The work environment is demanding, fast-paced, incredibly exciting and highly rewarding. The ideal candidate should be ready to push their limits as they join a highly motivated and capable team to make unbelieve things real.
- Execute laboratory and pilot-scale electrode processing duties as required by engineering staff, with primary focus on calendaring & lamination equipment setup and operation, processing support, and electrode sample preparation
- Prepare & install adjustable machine components (e.g. doctoring tools, trimmers) in advance of engineering process trials, including accessing underneath the tools while wearing full dry room PPE
- Conduct electrode processing techniques and methods at the lab or pilot scale level that will result in scalability for higher volume production. Support the engineering team during tests with sampling & data collection
- Coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams to ensure long-term health of equipment, tooling, and fixtures. Perform processing equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and identify/procure replacement parts
- Build test suites aimed at uncovering the potential of materials and process combinations
- Compile experimental/process data. Perform basic analysis of trends & statistics to assist engineers in identifying process limits, variables, and improvements for enhancing processes and ensuring scalability
- Document activities, identify issues, and review technical requirements with engineering staff to ensure process methods are compatible with materials and pilot-scale manufacturing considerations
- Support related lab duties and collaborate as a fully functional team member
- Minimum 2 years of experience as an engineering or process technician in energy technology or materials process development in a laboratory, pilot, or production environment
- Hands-on experience operating and maintaining equipment, preferably including continuous web processing, calendaring, coating, or similar roll-to-roll systems
- Experience with common electrical and analytical tools, and precision tasks such as sampling films with razor blades and scrapers, measuring samples with micrometers, balances, and handheld tools, and setting up equipment with feeler gauges
- Strong mechanical skills with wrenches, hand tools, and basic fixtures, including independent adjustments, installations, minor equipment modifications, and working underneath equipment to lift, position, bolt, troubleshoot, or adjust components
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision once trained, turn requirements into planned actions, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced development environment
- Familiarity with data analysis software such as Excel, JMP, etc.
- Experience handling battery materials and/or chemicals
- Ability to work a flexible schedule
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
- Ability to work in full cleanroom PPE, including bunny suit and respirator, for extended periods
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
Expected Compensation
$23.18 - $62.13/hour + 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.