Automation Equipment Engineer, Body in White, Megafactory

Description: Tesla is seeking a highly motivated Robotics Equipment Engineer to join our innovative manufacturing team. In this role, you’ll play a key part in designing, sustaining, and improving the next generation of robotic automation systems that power our high-volume production lines. You’ll collaborate closely with Test Engineering, Controls, and Manufacturing teams to ensure world-class equipment reliability, safety, and performance. This position demands hands-on expertise in robotics, automation, and mechanical systems, with a focus on continuous improvement, cross-functional leadership, and end-to-end ownership of equipment lifecycle management.

Responsibilities: Develop deep expertise in manufacturing processes, analyze production data, and evaluate equipment capabilities to drive process optimization and scalability Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives to redesign line layouts, improve material flow, reduce waste, and enhance ergonomics during product transition from prototype to mass production  Optimize production equipment to maximize safety, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), yield, and throughput; lead continuous improvement projects with measurable KPIs  Commission and sustain automated systems using KUKA robots, including programming, safety integration (Dual Check), and validation of robot paths, motion logic, and emergency stop systems  Develop and enhance KUKA.KRL and KUKA.VisionTech programs to improve accuracy, repeatability, and reliability in fastening, pick-and-place, welding, and sealing operations  Utilize KUKA.WorkVisual, KUKA.Sim, and SmartPAD GUI for offline programming, simulation, and troubleshooting; ensure seamless integration with shop floor operations Support 24/7 production operations by responding to equipment failures, performing root cause analysis, escalating issues appropriately, and implementing corrective actions  Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, electrical, and control system issues using structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys, FMEA)  Conduct comprehensive risk assessments for robotic systems, including safety interlocks, LOTO procedures, fixture interfaces, and collision avoidance; lead safety buyoffs prior to production launch  Take end-to-end ownership of equipment documentation, define and enforce new standards for technical drawings, work instructions, maintenance manuals, and as-built records

Requirements: Degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics Engineering, or equivalent experience Minimum 4 years of hands-on experience in high-volume manufacturing environments with a strong focus on automation, safety, and equipment reliability Proven experience (minimum 3 years) programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining KUKA industrial robots, including KRL scripting and safety system integration  Demonstrated proficiency in mechanical design using SolidWorks and/or CATIA; experience with CAD-based documentation and design for manufacturability (DFM) Strong foundation in engineering mechanics, kinematics, dynamics, and statics; ability to analyze and validate mechanical systems under real-world loads  Experience specifying, sourcing, and overseeing installation of large-scale automation equipment, including vendor management and technical procurement  Proficient in electrical design and modification using AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN; experience with PLCs (Siemens, Beckhoff), HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial networking  Hands-on experience with electromechanical systems including pneumatic circuits, actuators, sensors, motors, and end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) design  Familiarity with industrial automation interfaces such as Atlas Copco fastening tools, Cognex/Keyence vision systems, Hipot testers, CTS leak testers, and weld controllers Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills; self-driven, detail-oriented, and capable of leading cross-functional efforts with minimal supervision

Compensation & Benefits: 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