Robotics Electrical Design Engineer, Tactile Sensing, Optimus

Join the Tesla Optimus team and help build the future of general-purpose robotics. We are developing a highly capable, safe, and scalable humanoid robot designed to perform useful tasks in factories, homes, and beyond—leveraging Tesla’s expertise in AI, product design, and high-volume manufacturing. Our mission is to create a robot that can understand and interact with the real world at a level that transforms everyday life and unlocks new possibilities for humanity. The Tactile Sensing team gives the robot a sense of touch. Closely integrated with the hand structures and kinematic design, our tactile sensors are among the most critical elements for enabling dexterous manipulation—the foundation of a truly useful robot. We develop a range of electromechanical sensing technologies, transforming cutting-edge research into scalable, production-ready solutions at massive volume.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and integrate tactile sensing systems that provide the robot with precise, high-resolution touch feedback for dexterous manipulation Derive requirements from first principles to achieve ambitious product-level functionality Translate component performance and form-factor requirements into precise dimensional and material specifications Design dynamic harnessing and interconnect solutions tightly integrated across hand structures and kinematic joints Research and evaluate emerging tactile sensing technologies, then transform cutting-edge concepts into robust, production-ready hardware Perform sensor characterization, calibration, and performance optimization to meet requirements for sensitivity, durability, and repeatability Rapidly prototype sensor designs using a variety of fabrication methods, iterate quickly based on test results, and drive concepts through to high-volume manufacturing Develop specifications, test protocols, and quality standards for tactile sensor components and fully integrated assemblies Design custom fixtures, test equipment, and calibration systems to support both prototype development and volume production environments Conduct reliability and environmental testing to validate sensor performance across the robot’s expected lifetime and operating conditions

Requirements

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent industry experience Proficiency in designing parts and assemblies using 3D modeling software (CATIA preferred) Proficiency in drafting engineering drawings and conducting tolerance stack-up analysis (GD&T required) Experience with analysis software (MATLAB, ANSYS or equivalent) Deep knowledge of material science and high-volume manufacturing processes (electronics focused)