Mechanical Hardware Test & Validation Engineer, Optimus

Mechanical Hardware Test & Validation Engineer, Optimus Tesla Motors, Inc. 91,600 - 195,600 USD paid holidays, flex time, 401(k) United States, California, Palo Alto May 02, 2026
What to Expect Tesla is at the forefront of developing humanoid robots, known as Optimus or Optimus, on a large scale to revolutionize automation in manufacturing and material handling. By using advanced AI, Optimus will enable highly adaptable and autonomous operation. As part of our Robotic Hardware Validation team, we are seeking an exceptional Mechanical Engineer to play a critical role in testing and validating the Optimus. You will design and implement comprehensive tests at both the sub-system and component levels, developing innovative and rigorous test methodologies to ensure the reliability, performance, and safety of our cutting-edge humanoid robot. As an entry-level engineer, you will take direction from senior engineers while assuming full responsibility for the tests you design and run, providing summaries directly to leadership. What You'll Do
Develop, design and build new electromechanical test setups based on test requirements and constraints using engineering principles and CAD software
Apply first-principles thinking and scientific methodologies to identify risks and failure modes of humanoid robot structures and develop adequate test methodologies
Execute reliable test data collection, analyze data, identify issues and potential root causes of failures, and proactively collaborate with responsible parties to drive resolution
Contribute to the improvement of existing validation processes and methodologies
Document test procedures, results, and analyses clearly and concisely What You'll Bring
Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent with a solid understanding of fundamental mechanical engineering principles (stress analysis, power transmission, statics, dynamics) and a demonstrated ability to apply them to practical engineering problems or equivalent experience
Proven experience in designing and/or testing electromechanical and robotic systems, preferably within an industrial environment
Strong modeling skills in CAD, preferably CATIA (3DExperience), and basic knowledge of GD&T
Ability to use Python or MATLAB for test data interpretation
Expertise in Finite Element Analysis, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), or data acquisition systems and methods is a plus
Experience with selection and implementation of various electrical sensors and actuators
Familiarity with concepts of robotic systems encompassing hardware, software, control, and firmware components is highly desirable
Proven ability to articulate technical concepts and issues clearly and understandably through documentation and presentations Compensation and Benefits
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.