Sr. Staff Manufacturing Engineer, General Assembly & Test, Optimus

What to Expect
Tesla is seeking a highly motivated Sr. Staff Manufacturing Engineer to build and lead a team of engineers focused on high-volume production launches. This role will drive the development of scalable manufacturing systems while collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize product designs for manufacturability, accelerate assembly processes, and implement automation solutions. In this fast-paced, demanding environment, you’ll play a pivotal role in scaling Tesla’s AI robotics initiatives while advancing our mission to achieve sustainable abundance through innovative manufacturing practices.
What You’ll Do

• Lead Manufacturing Engineering Team: Build, mentor, and scale high-performing teams to design and deploy high-volume production systems, ensuring alignment with Tesla’s speed and quality objectives
• Collaborate with Equipment Suppliers: Partner with internal and external suppliers to engineer, install, and validate production equipment, accelerating line ramp-up to meet volume targets
• Validate Requirements and Constraints: Use first principles analysis to rigorously assess product and process requirements, eliminating ambiguity and ensuring all elements are purpose-driven and essential
• Optimize Production Processes: Identify and remove non-value-added steps in workflows, prioritizing functional simplicity before pursuing automation or advanced optimization
• Improve Cycle Time: Analyze production bottlenecks and implement solutions to increase process speed, throughput, and overall line efficiency
• Deploy Automation Solutions: Strategically integrate automation as a final step after process simplification, ensuring systems are robust, high-speed, and scalable
• Ensure Seamless Operational Transitions: Coordinate with operations teams during ramp-up phases, delivering detailed documentation and training to sustain engineering teams for long-term success

What You’ll Bring

• First Principles Thinking: A rigorous mindset focused on breaking down complex problems to their fundamental truths, enabling innovative solutions to manufacturing challenges
• Proficiency in CAD tools (Catia and AutoCAD preferred) for designing and optimizing production systems
• Deep knowledge of mechanical assembly techniques (pressing, fastening, harnessing, etc.) and electrical integration, including quality control matrices, testing protocols, and troubleshooting methodologies
• Familiarity with torque tools, automation equipment, control systems, and communication protocols (e.g., PLC, HMI, SCADA)
• Production Transition Experience: Demonstrated success in scaling products from prototype to high-volume production, ensuring seamless handover to sustaining teams
• Resilience & Adaptability: Ability to thrive in high-pressure environments while managing competing priorities and tight deadlines
• Communication & Organization: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, paired with meticulous attention to detail and a highly organized approach to documentation and process handover
• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Electrical engineering, or equivalent experience