Tesla

Makes electric cars, robotaxis and grid batteries

Mechanical Engineer - Tribology, Drive Systems

Design EngineeringConfirmed live in the last 24 hours

Full-timePalo Alto, CA, USANo salary listedIn-person

About the Job

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience in tribological validation and simulation of various contact mechanics, with the ability to rapidly design tribological testing and build high-fidelity models that predict tribological conditions and drive hardware design decisions.
Working knowledge of lubricant design, preferably drive-unit lubricants and/or greases, and gearbox lubrication.
Background in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or electrical engineering.
Proficiency with data analysis software such as MATLAB, Simulink, or Python.
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a related field.
Experience integrating artificial intelligence or machine learning techniques into tribology simulation workflows.
Experience in 3D modeling; CATIA is preferred.
Modeling architecture experience.
Understanding of electrically induced bearing damage mechanisms and mitigation solutions.

Responsibilities

Optimize and innovate existing high-fidelity gearbox tribology models.
Build new models to derive healthy tribological conditions for hardware components and inform lubricant design.
Lead tribology lab design of tribometer-level and drive-unit-level characterization testing, primarily to validate lubricants, coatings, and tribo-pairs.
Analyze the relationship between lubricant properties and hardware application requirements.
Define and understand system specifications and sensitivities relevant to tribological performance.
Organize and lead cross-functional teams to address system-level tribology challenges.

Category	Engineering & Information Technology
Location	Palo Alto, California
Requisition ID	285604
Type	Full-time

Job Description

The Drive System Engineering team is seeking a versatile tribologist in the field of gearbox tribology simulation, tribological testing design, and tribological interface molecular modeling. You will bring an in-depth understanding of gearbox tribology simulation and various tribological testing methodologies. You are expected to optimize existing gearbox tribology models for Tesla drive units while creating new models to support future design projects. Working side by side with engineers across disciplines, you will directly support the development of our world-class drive units. Projects can be open-ended, and you must thrive in a fast-paced, challenging environment. We design drive units for Tesla. Our engineering teams operate with a non-conventional product development philosophy: high inter-disciplinary collaboration, a flat organizational structure, and technical contribution at all levels. You will be expected to challenge and be challenged, to create, and to innovate. We are not interested in traditional "me-too" or marginal design thinking — first principles-based fundamental thinking is key to succeeding at Tesla. You'll work alongside accomplished, world-renowned engineers on some of the most exciting automotive programs in existence today.

Job Responsibilities

Optimize and innovate existing high-fidelity gearbox tribology models
Build new models to derive healthy tribological conditions for hardware components and inform lubricant design
Lead tribology lab through design of tribometer-level and drive-unit-level characterization testing primarily for validation of lubricants, coatings, and tribo-pairs
Analyze the relationship between lubricant properties and hardware application requirements
Define and understand system specifications and sensitivities relevant to tribological performance
Organize and lead cross-functional teams to address system-level tribology challenges

Job Requirements

2+ years of experience in tribological validation and simulation of various contact mechanics, with the ability to rapidly design tribological testing and build high-fidelity models that predict tribological conditions and drive hardware design decisions
Working knowledge in lubricant design, preferably drive unit lubricants and/or greases, and gearbox lubrication
Background in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or electrical engineering
Proficiency with data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, Python)
Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in realted field
Experience integrating AI/ML techniques into tribology simulation workflows
Experience in 3D modeling (CATIA preferred)
Modeling architecture experience
Understanding of EIBD (Electrically Induced Bearing Damage) mechanisms and mitigation solutions

About the Company

Tesla

Makes electric cars, robotaxis and grid batteries

Tesla makes electric cars and batteries that store power for homes and utilities, and it develops self-driving software and humanoid robots. In 2023, its Model Y became the first electric vehicle to rank as the world's best-selling car. Buyers order the Model 3 sedan, Model Y SUV, or Cybertruck pickup directly from Tesla instead of through dealers, and they charge on its Supercharger fast-charging network. It also sells Megapack and Powerwall batteries, runs a robotaxi service, and charges drivers a monthly fee for self-driving software that still needs their supervision. Tesla was founded in 2003, with Elon Musk as its lead early investor and a recognized co-founder, and it is based in Austin, Texas.

Company size: 10,001+
Company stage: IPO
Headquarters: Austin, TX
Founded: 2003

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