Engineering Technician, Mechanical Prototype Testing, Optimus

Tesla•Palo Alto, CA

2d•$24 - $56

About The Position

The Optimus Mechanical Design team is seeking an Engineering Technician to support our prototype testing and engineering development. This hand-on role will involve building prototypes, conducting failure analysis, and running tests across a wide range of components—from large-scale limb structures to intricate mechanical and electrical systems in robotic hands. You will be self-sufficient and report directly to the Mechanical Design Engineering Manager.

Requirements

Associate's Degree or technical certification in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electronics, or a related field, or equivalent experience
2+ years of experience as an engineering technician or in a similar role, with a focus on prototyping, testing, and failure analysis in robotics, automotive, or manufacturing environments
Ability to interpret engineering drawings and deliver micron-level tolerance assemblies with little guidance
Familiar with easy lathe or milling operations, CNC programming skills a plus
Strong hands-on skills with mechanical and electrical tools, including calipers, micrometers, multimeters, oscilloscopes, 3D printers, and machining equipment
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and basic electrical troubleshooting or programming (e.g., for sensor integration or automation scripting)
Excellent problem-solving abilities, with a knack for conducting root cause analysis and interpreting test data
Ability to work independently or collaboratively in a team, with strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Physical capability and willingness to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in a lab setting with exposure to machinery, noise, or dust

Nice To Haves

Basic programming/scripting experience (Python) a plus

Responsibilities

Build and assemble mechanical prototypes, ranging from large limb structures to fine-scale components such as electronics and articulated mechanisms in robotic hands
Utilize fabrication techniques such as 3D printing, machining, hand working, and soldering for both structural and precision components
Conduct comprehensive mechanical/electrical testing and failure analysis, culminating in detailed documentation/reports provided to the engineering team
Design, fabricate, and modify test fixtures and equipment to support assembly, testing, and maintenance/repair
Develop standard operating procedures for assembly and maintenance/repair, documenting instructions with thoroughness and clarity
Maintain detailed documentation of build processes, test results, failure analyses, and general project management using applications like Confluence or Jira
Maintain a high standard of organization and safety in the lab, including inventory management, tooling, and equipment maintenance
You may travel to support development and manufacturing activities across the Bay Area and/or global Tesla facilities for up to a week or more per month
Have flexibility on working hours including occasional nights and weekends
Flex your support to other teams including fleet service during downtime or according to business needs

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