Controls Technical Lead

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.

In this role, you will serve as the principal automation authority establishing robust controls frameworks, ensuring Tesla standards followed & 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.

Travel expected 25% - Ability to travel domestically and internationally to suppliers as required.

• 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

• 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

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