Project Engineer, New Product Introduction

Overview

At Tesla’s Megafactory in Lathrop, this role sits at the center of technical coordination for new product introduction. The Project Engineer partners with multiple cross-functional groups to drive product change management into the factory, support the creation of new processes, and make sure every trial is run to the approved product specification. The work covers the full progression from early prototype builds to production launch, along with continued product improvements that help scale and sustain Tesla Energy products.

The position is focused on validating systems and parts used in product development and manufacturing so that quality expectations are met at the highest level. It also includes building validation standards, creating test methods, setting up equipment, capturing results, and maintaining thorough records. The engineer will flag issues, recommend improvements to equipment or processes, and work closely with safety, design, product excellence, change control, manufacturing, and service teams.

Responsibilities

• Run manufacturing line trials for new products and process changes, making sure specifications and quality standards are met.
• Own quality assurance activities by testing and validating systems and components, while defining and rolling out validation standards and procedures.
• Prepare for trials by confirming parts are available, the line is ready, and the required data has been gathered and organized.
• Document trial outcomes by recording observations, analyzing results, writing reports, and recommending corrective actions where needed.
• Track every issue discovered during trial activity and work with the team until each item is closed.
• Restore manufacturing lines after trials and confirm they are validated or returned to their pre-trial condition.
• Review each trial’s effectiveness using measures such as yield, downtime, cost, and safety.
• Act as a subject matter expert on trial execution and ensure validation steps are followed correctly.
• Train assigned shift technicians and maintain a high standard of technical knowledge within the team.
• Work with cross-functional stakeholders to define scope and deliver the desired outcome.
• Communicate clearly with engineering and manufacturing peers, both in writing and verbally.
• Participate in change control discussions and provide input using first-principles thinking.

Requirements

• A degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• At least 5 years of experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Solid understanding of manufacturability, process design, process validation, and assembly methods.
• Ability to learn new technologies quickly and apply them effectively.
• Experience translating high-level performance issues into specific action items and corrective measures.
• Comfort using electrical and computer-based tools, precision measurement tools, electrical test equipment, and databases.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict timelines while managing multiple priorities at once.
• Strong analytical problem-solving capability, including use of DMAIC, Ishikawa, 5 Whys, or 8D methods.
• Readiness to work in a fast-moving manufacturing environment and, at times, extend working hours.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Perks and Benefits

• Competitive pay package with cash and stock awards.
• Medical plans available from day one, including options with $0 payroll deduction.
• Family-building, fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support.
• Dental and vision coverage, including plans with $0 paycheck contribution.
• Company HSA contribution when enrolled in the high-deductible medical plan with HSA.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• 401(k) with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, and other financial benefits.
• Company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage, with a 90-day waiting period.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Sick time, vacation time, and paid holidays.
• Back-up childcare and parenting support resources.
• Voluntary coverage options such as critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident, theft and legal services, and pet insurance.
• Weight loss and tobacco cessation programs.
• Tesla Babies program.
• Commuter benefits.
• Employee discounts and perks program.

Compensation

The expected annual compensation for this position is $93,600 to $140,400, plus cash and stock awards and benefits. Final pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and the location of the role. Additional compensation elements may also apply depending on the offer.

Additional Information

This is a full-time onsite position based in Lathrop, CA. The work may occasionally require extended hours because of the pace and demands of the manufacturing environment.