Automation Engineer, Robotics - Optimus Segment Stamping

Job Description

<p>Tesla is seeking an Automation Engineer, Robotics to lead the design, development, and optimization of automation equipment for Optimus Segment Stamping — high-speed stator lamination production supporting next-generation electric motor manufacturing. You will own automation development, integration, and data-driven continuous improvement so presses and cells meet Tesla standards for performance, safety, quality, and sustainability in high-volume manufacturing.&nbsp;</p><p>You will partner with Design Engineering, Die Engineering, tooling suppliers, Quality, Process, Maintenance, and Operations to execute automation equipment projects from concept through installation, buyoff, and start of production. The ideal candidate is hands-on, data-driven, and comfortable debugging complex robotics and controls systems on the factory floor in a fast-paced NPI and ramp environment.&nbsp;</p><p>Travel expected more than 5% — ability to travel for equipment-supplier visits, trials, and buyoffs as required. Occasional overtime or shift support for 24/7 manufacturing may be required.&nbsp;</p>

Job Responsibilities

• Design and develop automation for high-speed stator lamination stamping presses — including robotics, PLCs, sensors, vision systems, and control software — to raise throughput and precision 

• Optimize high-speed stamping automation for metal forming, die interfaces, and material handling so production is robust, scalable, and meets Tesla quality and safety standards 

• Program and integrate PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens), robots (Fanuc, KUKA), VFDs, and servo drives for precise motion and press-related motor control; integrate industrial protocols (EtherCAT, PROFINET) and vision systems for in-process quality inspection and process feedback 

• Troubleshoot automation issues on the factory floor, reduce downtime, and lead root-cause analysis on equipment and controls failures with permanent corrective actions; support flexible hours during launch, ramp, and critical downtime as business needs require 

• Partner with Process Engineering, suppliers, and Maintenance to standardize practices, validate new equipment, and industrialize stamping automation 

• Run simulations, testing, and data analysis to refine automation algorithms and predict performance at volume 

• Drive continuous improvement, including AI-driven predictive maintenance and energy efficiency in stamping operations 

• Support new product-line ramp-up from installation through start of production (SOP), including commissioning, punch-list closure, and production readiness 

• Hold safety standards across the equipment lifecycle, including safety PLCs and fail-safe systems, plus quality systems, regulatory requirements, and environmental goals 

• Create and maintain technical documentation required for ownership at SOP (controls architecture, robot programs, safety validation, SOPs, and training materials) 

Job Requirements

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent experience

• 3+ years of automation engineering experience, preferably in high-volume manufacturing such as automotive stamping or metal forming 

• Proficiency in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens), robotics (Fanuc, KUKA), CAD/CAM (SolidWorks, AutoCAD), and simulation software 

• Experience programming VFDs and servo drives for precise motor control 

• Experience with industrial protocols (EtherCAT, PROFINET) and vision systems for quality inspection 

• Experience programming and integrating safety PLCs for fail-safe operation 

• Ability to analyze data, run root-cause analysis, and improve processes using Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing methods 

• Hands-on problem-solving skills for debugging complex automation systems in production 

• Strong cross-functional communication skills; able to work effectively with Design, Die Engineering, Process, Quality, Maintenance, Operations, and suppliers under changing priorities 

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, including occasional overtime or shift work supporting 24/7 manufacturing, and to travel more than 5% for equipment-supplier visits, trials, or buyoffs as required