Process Technician, NPI

What to Expect

We are seeking a highly skilled technician to introduce new parts and processes to the GFTX Cell Manufacturing lines. The NPI Technician is primarily responsible for ensuring the successful launch of new Cell Designs, turning new engineering design to mass production as we continue to advance the Tesla 4680 ramp. This person is expected to be able to execute against provided manufacturing instructions (if available), validate their own work, check the quality of previous operations, mentor production associates, lead builds in defined area, and meet schedules. The NPI Technician is expected to be able to provide feedback, define standard work, and suggest process improvements. Experience with hand tools and use of semi-automated manufacturing equipment is necessary.

What You’ll Do

• Prepare materials, tools, and prototype parts for NPI builds, qualification cells, and specialized offsite testing
• Execute trial builds to instructions, self-validate work, check prior operations, and meet critical deadlines
• Run high-volume manufacturing trials with lineside support, follow parts through the floor, and feed data and observations back to Engineering
• Document and deliver constructive feedback, iterate standard work, and train production teams on new parts, systems, and processes
• Support investigations, instrumented and non-Plan of Record builds, and cross-functional projects that keep the factory and line ready
• Own 5S and trial part inventory in NPI areas, and support Operations on the production line as needed
• Own, update, and close JIRA tickets that track technician activities

What You’ll Bring

• 3+ years of hands-on mechanical generalist experience, with engineering or high-volume manufacturing background preferred
• Independent problem-solver who works from high-level direction and resolves technical issues without constant oversight
• Working knowledge of electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical instructions, including drawings, assembly manuals, and verbal direction
• Quality background and experience checking prior operations or validating builds is a plus
• Fluent in Excel and Microsoft Office, with SQL, Python, or JMP experience preferred
• Able to navigate JIRA or comparable ticket systems, with scrum, dashboarding, or scheduling skills a plus
• Clear written and verbal English, and the ability to communicate test results, ideas, and problems to supervisors and engineers as part of the solution