Mechatronics Engineer, Optimus Hardware Validation Tesla Motors, Inc. 91600 - 195600 USD paid holidays, flex time, 401(k) United States, California, Palo Alto Sep 26, 2026

What to Expect Tesla is at the forefront of developing humanoid robots on a large scale to revolutionize automation in manufacturing and material handling. As part of our dedicated Optimus Test team, we are seeking an exceptional Mechatronics Engineer to play a pivotal role in the testing and validation of the Optimus. You will be instrumental in ensuring the success of the Optimus throughout its entire product lifecycle. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in robotic system test and integration, including hands-on experience with coding and control. A comprehensive understanding of the interdependencies between software and hardware is essential, as is the ability to effectively manage software and hardware integration for testing purposes. This role will provide exposure to various systems of the Optimus, including controls, actuators, and structures, requiring understanding of low voltage and mechanical systems basics. This position offers a high level of engagement, requiring close collaboration with diverse cross-functional teams including design engineers, software developers, and our controls team. You will be empowered to take ownership of specific testing tasks and contribute your unique expertise to identify and troubleshoot any issues that arise. Your strong technical background, coupled with excellent problem-solving skills, will enable you to contribute to the cutting-edge technology of the Optimus, which is poised to transform labor market and automation industry. Joining Tesla as a Mechatronics Engineer presents an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in the field of robotics, working on a groundbreaking project that pushes the boundaries of innovation. If you are passionate about robotics and possess the drive to tackle technical challenges head-on, we invite you to be part of our team. What You'll Do

Design, build, and execute system level tests

Utilize existing tools and applications to commission and operate robotic and electro-mechanical systems, while effectively communicating, controlling, and troubleshooting these systems

Develop and maintain test software and customized test code, to enhance the efficiency, modularity, and repeatability of system validation processes and to facilitate the execution, data collection, and data analysis of robotic systems and sub-systems

Utilize technical expertise to identify potential root causes of system issues and failures, proactively engaging responsible parties to drive resolution

Thoroughly document procedures and results to ensure traceability and promote knowledge sharing among team members What You'll Bring

Degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience

Minimum of 2 years of experience in designing, developing, and integrating robotic systems, preferably within an industrial environment

Proficiency in Python and Git, along with hands-on experience with robotic frameworks and libraries

Strong understanding of robotic systems encompassing hardware, software, and firmware components

Exposure and familiarity with embedded firmware and hardware and comprehensive knowledge of motor controller operation and interfaces

Experience with communication protocols both high and low level, like SPI, I2C, Ethernet, CAN, etc.

Knowledge of different sensors, what they do, and how to interact with them

Genuine curiosity to comprehend the functioning and troubleshooting of systems, coupled with a proven ability to identify and resolve technical issues efficiently

Experience with test automation and data analysis software and data acquisition methods

Demonstrated resilience, proactivity, and a positive mindset when facing challenging circumstances

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

Expected Compensation

$91,600 - $195,600/annual salary + cash and stock awards + benefits Pay 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.