Lead Process Engineer, Cell Manufacturing, Factory Programs

Tesla Motors, Inc.
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, Texas, Austin
Apr 12, 2026
What to Expect Tesla's Cell EngineeringFactory Programsteam is seeking a Staff Process Engineerto serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME)for our 4680 cell manufacturingfactories. This is a high-impact technical leadership role at the core of our4680 capacityexpansion, where you will define tool utility requirements, connection interfaces, and system standards that enable fast, reliable, and efficient scaling across gigafactories worldwide. You will act as the in-house subject matter expert on process and chemical utility systems,hydronic loops, process gases,electrolyteandothersupporting infrastructure,applying first-principles thinking to ensure seamless integration between manufacturing equipment and factory central systems. Yourexpertisewill directly influence facility design decisions, operational efficiency, and long-term scalability, making you a critical driver of Tesla's manufacturing roadmap. As the primary review and approval authority for factory utility systems, you will bridge equipment suppliers, manufacturing teams, and construction partners to deliver optimized, code-compliant designs that support high-volume battery production. What You'll Do Own the definition of hydronic (process cooling water, RO/DI water),process gas (N , compressed air)and Electrolytesupplyrequirements for all cell manufacturing equipment, including loads, connection locations, and interface types Lead conceptual planning for future cell factory utility distribution, accurately estimating capacityneedsand specifying supporting equipment such as compressors, driers, HEXand boilers Design, review, andoptimizehydronic distribution systems,including heating and cooling water loops, hot oil loops, pumps, and heat exchangers,from conceptual stage through installation and commissioning Partner with equipment suppliers, manufacturing engineers, and installation teams across all project phases: concept development, detailed design, procurement, factory acceptance testing, installation, and site acceptance testing Perform cost-benefit analyses for localized versus centralized utility solutions (e.g., air compressors, blowers, local cooling skids vs. centralized), driving efficient and scalable decisions Coordinate metering and validation of manufacturing equipment to confirm average and peak loads, feedingaccuratedata into global models and standards Collaborate with local factory engineering teams and regulatory authorities to interpret and apply regional process codes and requirements to equipment and system design What You'll Bring Degree in Process or Chemical Engineering with 8+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent experience Strong first-principlesexpertisein process utility system design and large-scale manufacturing infrastructure (battery, semiconductor, or chemical processing facilities preferred) Hands-on experience with pipe flow and system modeling tools (AFTPipeflow, Aspen, or equivalent) Proficiencyin 3D modeling software including Revit, Navisworks,andBIM 360 preferred Demonstrated success managing complex technical projects through the full lifecycle-from concept to commissioning-with excellent organizational and documentation skills Exceptional communication and collaboration abilities, with the credibility to influence cross-functional teams, suppliers, and leadership Detail-oriented, proactive, and committed to engineering rigor and continuous improvement 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