Controls Engineering Lead

Job Description

<p>Tesla is seeking an experienced Controls Technical Lead to provide architectural direction and organizational leadership for the automation systems supporting the Optimus Gears manufacturing program.  </p> <p>In this role, you will serve as the principal automation authority establishing robust controls frameworks, ensuring Tesla standards followed &amp; proactively authoring new engineering standards where gaps exist. Manage commissioning strategy across various manufacturing lines. You will bridge the gap between engineering domains, collaborating with cross-functional teams Product Design, global equipment vendors, and Operations leadership to drive the long-term industrialization strategy for future manufacturing expansion. </p> <p>Travel expected 25%  - Ability to travel domestically and internationally to suppliers as required. </p>

Job Responsibilities

• Lead technical equipment reviews, author detailed automation specifications, and evaluate global supplier designs following Tesla’s control frameworks
• Define and establish the core controls architecture, software design patterns, and hardware deployment standards for advanced manufacturing lines
• Drive the end-to-end execution strategy for Factory and Site Acceptance Testing (FAT/SAT), debugging infrastructure logic, and validation 
• Provide direct technical direction, mentor controls engineering talent, and build a high-performing automation organization geared toward scalable operational excellence
• Oversee the deployment of complex robotics, safety networks, machine vision platforms, and MES interfaces to guarantee data-driven product traceability and cycle-time performance
• Spearhead the resolution of critical automation bottlenecks during pilot builds, high-pressure production ramps & Long-term OEE & Cycle Time targets

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering & Mechatronics discipline or equivalent experience
• 10+ years of deep industrial automation experience leading complex, large-scale factory launches within high-volume manufacturing environments 
• Proven record of establishing architectural standards for enterprise-grade control platforms, specifically utilizing Beckhoff , Siemens, or Allen-Bradley PLCs
• Strong working knowledge of industrial robotics, machine vision implementation, and high-precision automated assembly integration
• Expert-level understanding of industrial fieldbus topologies (EtherCAT, Profinet, or Ethernet/IP), advanced motion control, and integrated safety networking
• Demonstrated track record of technical leadership, supplier management, and fostering engineering talent through direct mentorship