Engineering Technician, System Level Inspection, Hardware Validation & Test Optimus Tesla Motors, Inc. 24.40 - 65.40 USD paid holidays, flex time, 401(k) United States, California, Palo Alto Sep 26, 2026

What to Expect

As a member of the Optimus test team, you will perform hands-on testing and validation across mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation disciplines. The role focuses on complex system inspection, environmental stress testing, and data collection to support hardware development and reliability targets. You will work closely with test and reliability engineers while managing independent workflows and documenting findings that influence design decisions. What You'll Do

Perform detailed inspections on complex system assemblies to identify mechanical and electrical anomalies

Use torque wrenches, calipers, and dial indicators to verify preload, measure wear, and assess dimensional tolerances

Configure power supplies, route cables, and instrument thermocouples according to test specifications

Execute system-level environmental and thermal stress testing in controlled chambers

Support test execution by running and modifying Python scripts and navigating Linux command-line interfaces

Inspect actuators and mechanical linkages while applying basic physics concepts such as force, torque, and friction

Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and communication protocol issues including CAN bus and EtherCAT What You'll Bring

2+ years of hands-on experience in system-level inspection, prototype validation, or a related technical discipline

Strong attention to detail with proven ability to identify and document mechanical and electrical issues

Experience with actuators, mechanical linkages, and basic physics concepts

Strong proficiency with hand tools, precision measurement instruments, and torque applications

Proficiency in data collection using MS Excel and the ability to run and adapt Python scripts

Comfort navigating command-line interfaces and managing scripts in a Linux environment

Ability to work independently while communicating findings clearly to cross-functional teams

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

$24.40 - $65.40/hour + 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.