Staff System Validation Engineer, Optimus

Tesla•Palo Alto, CA

About The Position

Tesla is at the forefront of developing humanoid robots, known as Optimus, on a large scale to revolutionize automation in manufacturing and material handling. We leverage advanced AI for highly adaptable and autonomous operation. As part of our Optimus Hardware Validation team, we're seeking an exceptional System Validation Engineer to design and implement comprehensive tests at sub-system and system levels. You'll develop innovative methodologies to ensure the reliability, performance, and safety of our cutting-edge humanoid robot. This highly cross-functional role involves collaborating with design engineers, software developers, and controls experts to create efficient testing that delivers optimal results in minimal time. You'll report findings to senior leadership, close the loop on physical design aspects through feedback for future iterations, and lead/mentor other validation engineers. You'll also be responsible for the tests you and your team design and execute.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics or Robotics Engineering, or relevant experience
8+ years of experience in hardware design/validation, system-level testing, or debugging of electromechanical or robotic systems, preferably in an industrial or high-tech environment
Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams, mentoring engineers, and driving validation projects to successful completion
Strong programming skills in Python, with expertise in Object-Oriented Programming and developing automated test frameworks; experience in other languages is a plus
Extensive experience implementing and troubleshooting communication protocols such as Ethernet or CAN
Strong familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git), embedded firmware, and hardware design

Nice To Haves

Expertise in electrical sensors, actuators, test automation, motor controller operation, interfaces, and data acquisition systems are highly desirable
Experience using data analysis tools and techniques to interpret results and make recommendations; proficiency in MATLAB, Python, JMP, or Minitab is preferred
Exceptional analytical skills to tackle complex technical challenges and develop innovative solutions for system-level validation

Responsibilities

Oversee the design and execution of test plans and advanced validation methodologies for robotic sub-systems and full systems, ensuring robust reliability testing
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in hardware validation
Oversee the development and maintenance of automated test scripts and frameworks using Python, optimizing efficiency in validation processes
Analyze test data, perform root cause analysis for system-level failures, identify trends, and collaborate cross-functionally to drive resolutions and recommend design improvements

Benefits

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