Staff Analytical Chemist, Solar Manufacturing

Tesla is currently seeking a motivated and accomplished Staff Analytical Chemist to support our Solar Energy product line. You will be managing and conducting metrology on chemicals/materials used throughout the solar cell production process. The focus will be on measuring and controlling trace impurities. You will operate, maintain, and develop methods to quantify ppm, ppb and sub-ppb levels of metallic and non-metallic impurities in high-purity gases and liquids, etching baths, bulk silicon, and metallization pastes. Experience with analytical techniques for measuring trace impurities using ICP-MS and gas chromatography (e.g. GC-MS) is required. Familiarity with other chemical identification techniques such as XPS, XRF and TOF-SIMS is a bonus.

• Develop, validate, and maintain robust analytical methods for the purity of materials used in solar cell manufacturing including: input chemicals (liquids and gases), etching baths, silicon ingots, metallization pastes
• Perform routine and non-routine sample analysis requiring ppb and sub-ppb sensitivity, good recovery (>85-95%), and excellent precision (%RSD <5-10%)
• Establish and maintain a rigorous calibration regime, blank controls, spike/recovery studies, and statistical process control (SPC) for all methods
• Maintain and troubleshoot the ICP-MS tool (torch, cones, nebulizer, vacuum system, detector, etc.) including preventive maintenance, daily tuning, and cold/hot plasma modes cold plasma mode for alkali metals
• Prepare samples (dilution, digestion, matrix-matched standards) in a cleanroom environment
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain GC-MS systems (including sample introduction, column selection, ionization, and detector optimization) for routine and non-routine analyses
• Develop process to record/track results in reports/databases. Document and update SOPs and reports
• Train and mentor junior chemists or technicians on ICP-MS/GC-MS operation, method execution, and data interpretation
• Collaborate with process engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to translate measurement results into actionable insights that improve process control
• Ensure laboratory compliance with internal quality management requirements
• Master's degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or equivalent experience
• 5+ years of hands-on experience operating and method development on ICP-MS and GC-MS instruments (Agilent, Thermo-Fisher, PerkinElmer, or similar)
• Proven track record in analyzing corrosive, hazardous chemicals and handling strong bases. Familiarity with solid sampling techniques or acid digestion protocols for silicon-based materials
• Strong understanding of interference management (polyatomic, isobaric, and matrix-matched standards)
• Evidence of exceptional ability
• Exceptional organization, cross discipline collaboration and communication skills
• Excellent problem-solving skills. Proficient with statistical software
• Detailed-oriented, able to work both independently and in a collaborative project-focused environment, prompt and dependable, and excellent communication skills
• Resilient in the context of a fast-paced and fluid environment (scrappy). Comfortable in doing more with less
• Mission driven

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

$156,000 - $234,000/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.