Controls Engineer, Cell Engineering
What To ExpectTesla is accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy. Join our Cell Engineering team in building next-generation battery cell pilot production and R&D equipment that pushes the boundaries of manufacturing automation.As a Controls Engineer, you will design, develop, and optimize advanced control systems for cutting-edge battery cell manufacturing equipment. You will own controls architecture from concept through commissioning, debug, and continuous improvement — working closely with Design Engineering, Process Engineering, and cross-functional teams to rapidly bring new cell designs and processes from prototype to production.You will program and integrate PLCs, robots, safety systems, HMIs, and vision systems while ensuring maximum uptime, yield, and cycle time performance in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.What You'll DoDebug and optimize automated processes to maximize cycle time, equipment availability, and yield using data-driven methods (simulation, Gage R&R, Cpk, capability studies, etc.)Develop robust system architecture, detailed electrical/pneumatic schematics, and utility layouts; collaborate with facilities for implementationArchitect, write, and debug clean, structured, well-documented PLC ladder logic (with emphasis on maintainability and reusability) that interfaces with conveyors, robots, MES, machine vision, and third-party equipmentDesign and implement control-reliable safety systems (ANSI/RIA 15.06 / OSHA compliant) for robots, gantries, conveyors, and high-volume automationCreate intuitive, aesthetically clean HMI screens that provide effective troubleshooting and operator feedbackParticipate in equipment conceptual development, balancing product requirements, process control, complexity, cost, quality, and lead timeLay out NFPA 79 / NEC / UL508A-compliant industrial control panels; generate electrical, pneumatic, and fluid schematicsManage suppliers through specification, design reviews, technical quote evaluation, and buy-off; enforce Tesla standards and lead equipment characterization/validation for production releaseBuild and commission electrical cabinets, field wiring, and pneumatic/fluid systems; select and size servo drives, gearheads, and electromechanical componentsEstablish data management networks for product, process, and quality traceabilityWhat You'll BringDegree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or equivalent experienceStrong proficiency in process integration and electromechanical/mechatronic systemsAdvanced experience programming industrial controls including Ladder Logic PLCs and Safety PLCs (Beckhoff, Siemens, Rockwell, Omron, Mitsubishi)HMI/GUI development (FactoryTalk, Ignition, or similar)Fieldbus networks (EtherCAT, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, safety-rated buses)Solid experience with serial (RS-232) and Ethernet communications between PLCs, instruments, and database/MES systemsFamiliarity with hazardous location equipment (Class I, Division 2 or equivalent) for explosive/flammable material processes, including proper hardware selectionHands-on exposure to a wide range of production machinery, sensors, and subsystems (LVDT, pressure transducers, dispense systems, torque controllers, power meters, temperature controllers, etc.)Highly desired: Prior experience with manufacturing equipment, especially in battery/EV-related productionExcellent organizational skills with strong attention to documentation and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneouslyBenefitsCompensation and BenefitsAlong 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 programExpected CompensationAssociate Manufacturing Controls Dev Engineer - $82,440 - $123,660/annual salaryManufacturing Controls Dev Engineer - $98,640 - $147,960/annual salarySr Manufacturing Controls Dev Engineer - $117,360 - $176,040/annual salary+ cash and stock awards + benefits for all levelsPay 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.We will accept applications for this job until June 29, 2026, after which this posting will be removed., Tesla