Mechanical Process Development Engineer

Battery cells are the common denominator for every Tesla product. Our product requirements demand ground-up cell architectures with state-of-the-art performance, manufactured at volumes that are orders of magnitude higher than the products they power. Our environment is fast-paced and incredibly exciting, so being passionate and self-motivated to push your limits is critical. Our team works alongside engineering groups across various disciplines, requiring strong communication skills and a team-first mentality. We collaborate with seasoned industry experts, high aptitude recent graduates, and people from every stage in between. We seek candidates with exceptional ability to solve problems in both individual and team settings.

This position will support 4680 battery cell development programs as we transfer leanings in a smaller scale to Tesla’s scalability goals. A successful candidate will possess proven communication and logical problem-solving skills, hands-on approach, proactive attitude with get it done mentality, and the ability to juggle competing priorities while delivering results. This individual will work closely with members of the R&D, process development and manufacturing teams to support/resolve ongoing manufacturing challenges. An ideal candidate is knowledgeable at powder mixing, electrode calendering, battery process, data analytics and visualization, and is motivated to proactively solve problems in a methodical way.

• As needed, travel to different Tesla locations to ensure a smooth knowledge transfer
• You will be responsible for analyzing the process documentation, ensuring it is kept current. Propose process recommendation and work it through with cross-functional teams throughout the entire lifecycle of processes.
• This role will develop scale up and optimize battery manufacturing processes for advanced development from proof-of-concept electrode designs to manufacturing readiness. You will work closely with many organizations, both internal and external to Tesla, to transition new battery designs from initial concept into full production
• Hands on in troubleshooting and solving process and equipment problems. Support new equipment commissioning.
• Initiate, develop, and lead the implementation of continuous process improvement projects.
• Oversees tests and measurements throughout the various stages of development to determine control over variables. Support powder and film characterization methodology development
• Develop operating procedures, safety protocols, and maintenance plans for process equipment
• Provide engineering support to operation team and processing equipment: utilize SPC data and tools to characterize all equipment processes for operating limits, robustness, and action limits.

• Strong Mechanical aptitude: ability to relate process change to equipment condition and creatively find solution to make it work
• Evidence of exceptional ability, including a strong understanding of engineering fundamentals and demonstrated ability to leverage this understanding to solve challenging technical problems. At least 2-3 years experience in R&D and/or production environments, with demonstrated experience leading process development in R&D and/or supporting production teams in root cause analysis and troubleshooting of equipment/process issues
• Proficient in the Microsoft suite (Office, Excel, Power Point, MS Project, Visio)
• Some understanding/knowledge of process control strategies
• Exceptional analytical skills and the ability to create meaningful information from experimental data.
• The ability to effectively communicate concepts and strategies to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Proficient in JMP or similar data analysis software
• Capacity to work independently and as a team to simultaneously handle a variety of complex matters under pressure
• Able to effectively and proactively engage and influence key stakeholders and peers
• Able to work on multiple projects simultaneously and prioritizing tasks based on demand despite changes in work scope or focus.
• Open-minded, collaborative, and team-oriented attitude with the ability to think outside the box for solutions to complex challenges
• Comfortable dealing with ambiguity
• Bachelors (or higher) degree in Chemical Engineering, Material Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant Engineering degrees.