Sr. Test Engineer, Abuse Test & Engineering

We are seeking a highly motivated engineer to lead the evaluation and testing of battery propagation resistance across vehicle and energy storage programs. In this role, you will own the test process end-to-end-from design evaluation, test conception, planning, and execution, through to results analysis and collaboration on design decisions. You will also develop innovative test methods to investigate failure modes from a first-principles perspective and help define next-generation pack architectures. Your work will directly influence Tesla’s ability to rapidly launch and optimize cutting-edge products at scale. What You’ll Do

• Lead battery propagation resistance efforts on assigned programs in close collaboration with the cell and pack design, test, and manufacturing teams
• Partner with internal teams to develop cell and pack designs that meet safety and abuse specifications
• Define and communicate test plans, resource requirements, and timelines for each program phase based on risk and schedule
• Present results and design recommendations to cross-functional stakeholders and executives
• Develop tests tailored to pack architectures (geometric, thermal, electrical) to study failure mode frequency, severity, and mechanisms
• Recommend new methods to deepen our understanding of failure modes
• Investigate failure modes and propose strategies to deepen organizational understanding
• Collaborate with technicians and test systems engineers to optimize tests, identifying opportunities for improved design, throughput, data fidelity, and integrity
• Enhance statistical frameworks, results databases, and visualization tools for more robust decision-making
• Design test setups and instrumentation to improve model validation, accuracy, and utility

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering, or equivalent experience
• 2+ years’ experience in physically applied-engineering (lab, machine shop, hobby project, etc.)
• Strong problem-solving ability using first principles, with a foundation in heat transfer and electrical engineering fundamentals
• Hands-on experience with fabrication, modification, instrumentation, troubleshooting, and inspection
• Proficiency with instrumentation and data acquisition systems
• Strong collaboration and leadership skills; comfortable guiding cross-functional teams and technicians
• Ability to plan and execute multiple concurrent activities in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment
• Experience with Matlab or Python
• Proficiency in CAD for fixture or test design
• Knowledge of SQL or database management

paid holidays, flex time, 401(k), 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 $109,600 - $234,000/annual salary + cash and stock awards + benefits