Sr. Manufacturing Automation Engineer, Robotics

What to Expect The Sr. Manufacturing Automation Engineer, Robotics, leads design, development and optimization of automation equipment for next-generation electric motors manufacturing. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including design engineering, die engineering, tooling suppliers, quality, process, and operations—to execute advanced automation equipment projects and ensure processes meet Tesla's rigorous standards for performance, safety, and sustainability. This position blends automation development, integration, and data-driven continuous improvement in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment.

What You'll Do

Design and develop automation solutions for high-speed stator lamination stamping presses, including integration of robotics, PLCs, sensors, vision systems, and control software to improve throughput and precision

Optimize high speed stamping processes for metal forming, die design, and material handling, ensuring robust, scalable production that meets Tesla's high standards for quality and safety

Troubleshoot and resolve automation-related issues on the production floor, minimizing downtime and implementing root-cause analysis for failures

Collaborate with process engineers, suppliers, and maintenance teams to standardize business practices, validate new equipment, and support the industrialization of stamping services

Conduct simulations, testing, and data analysis to refine automation algorithms and predict performance under high-volume conditions

Drive continuous improvement initiatives, such as implementing AI-driven predictive maintenance or enhancing energy efficiency in stamping operations

Support the ramp-up of new product lines from installation until SOP (start of production)

What You'll Bring

Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent experience

3+ years of experience in automation engineering, preferably in high-volume manufacturing environments such as automotive stamping or metal forming

Strong proficiency in automation tools and software, such as PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens), robotics (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA), CAD/CAM (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD), and simulation software (e.g., PLM or similar)

Experience with programming VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives) and servo drives for precise motor control in automated systems

Experience with industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherCAT, Profinet) and vision systems for quality inspection

Demonstrated ability to analyze data, perform root-cause analysis, and implement process improvements using methodologies like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing

Excellent problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach to debugging complex systems in a production setting

Experience with safety PLCs, including programming and integration for fail-safe operations in manufacturing environments

Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with occasional overtime or shift work to support 24/7 manufacturing

Travel as required for equipment supplier visits, trials or buyoffs (>5%)

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

Earned Wage Access: Real-time pay access paid daily, subject to eligibility and schedule (applicable for below Sr. Managers levels)

Tesla is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Tesla is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.