Sr. Thermal Test Engineer, Semi

What to ExpectJoin our diverse, enthusiastic, and growing team of multi-disciplinary engineers at Tesla, where we accelerate the world's transition to sustainable abundance-creating an era of clean, plentiful energy for all. You'll contribute by validating the reliability, performance, and durability of thermal systems that form the backbone of our self-driving vehicles and AI technologies. These systems ensure efficient cooling for batteries, AI hardware, and components in autonomous driving, enabling reliable operation in real-world conditions. With opportunities to work across various development programs, you'll thrive in Tesla's innovative, fast-paced environment, often collaborating beyond your core role to drive progress.

What You'll Do Lead hardware validation and testing for thermal management components and subsystems, including compressors, A/C lines, heat exchangers, hoses, coolant pumps, HVAC blowers, and electronic valves. Identify potential failure modes and collaborate with design partners to implement effective improvementsOversee the build and testing of thermal system test bucks, creating modular setups for component-, system-, and vehicle-level evaluationsDevelop and maintain test software in Python for automation, data collection, analysis, and post-processing; refine our pytest-based automation codebase to interact with devices and support reliability testingDesign and build custom test fixtures to enable efficient, modular, and repeatable validation processesIntegrate test equipment such as power supplies, environmental chambers, DAQs, sensors, and related instrumentation into automated test setups, ensuring seamless connectivity and data accuracy for high-fidelity validationConduct hands-on debugging of test setups and equipment; perform root cause analysis on failures and issues affecting both test hardware and the device under test to enable rapid resolutions and iterative improvementsManage the full testing lifecycle from setup to execution and reporting, including planning, development, inspections, root cause analysis, data processing, and full-vehicle interactions for software validation and thermal system reliabilityDocument test findings clearly and communicate them promptly to cross-functional teams; conduct root cause analysis on failures and partner with design,software, failure analysis, reliability teams, and suppliers to develop corrective actionsTrack validation schedules, coordinate test resources, and update program managers on progress, risks, and blockersWhat You'll Bring Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or equivalent experienceProficiency in coding for test automation and data post-processing, with hands-on experience in Python and/or C. Familiarity with pytest for maintaining robust automation codebasesFoundation in thermodynamics, including refrigeration and coolant systemsKnowledge of working principles for common thermal components, including operation, testing, and characterizationExperience with standard lab and test equipment, such as power supplies, DAQs, pressure transducers, flow meters, and temperature sensorsExperience in high-voltage and low-voltage component validation (e.g., inverters, power electronics, motors)Prior work with CAN communication protocols and test setupsDesign experience using CAD software such as CATIA or SOLIDWORKSBackground in full vehicle testing for thermal system validation, testing, and reliabilityCompensation and BenefitsBenefits 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 deductionFamily-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefitsDental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contributionCompany Paid (Health Savings Accounts) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High-Deductible Aetna medical plan with HSAHealthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefitsCompany paid Basic Life, AD&DShort-term and long-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)Employee Assistance ProgramSick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions, Accrued hours for Hourly positions), and Paid HolidaysBack-up childcare and parenting support resourcesVoluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insuranceWeight Loss and Tobacco Cessation ProgramsTesla Babies programCommuter benefitsEmployee discounts and perks program 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.