Sr. Controls Engineer, Optimus Charger

Tesla is seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to contribute to development, optimization, and continuous improvement of existing automation equipment and assembly lines. This is an exciting opportunity to build a world class manufacturing facility right here in the Bay Area. Tesla is a demanding and fast-paced environment where you will work on a critical subsystem of incredibly exciting products. The Controls Engineer will be expected to have sound controls engineering fundamentals and be comfortable troubleshooting PLC-based equipment.

Responsibilities

Design and build aesthetic HMI screens for complex machinery, ensuring clear diagnostic feedback Develop organized, documented, and reusable PLC ladder logic code following Tesla’s programming standards Create, review, and approve electrical schematics (in house or external) and maintain the associated documentation Lead equipment design reviews and act as the technical liaison with production, maintenance, and IT teams Support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of control systems on production equipment Drive continuous process optimization and implement corrective actions to improve cycle time and uptime Establish and execute test plans, risk assessments, and control system validation activities Maintain backup, version control, and ongoing improvement of PLC and Ignition SCADA programming standards Develop and deliver training programs and maintenance documentation for end users and support staff Serve as the point of contact for supplier/equipment buy offs and for any occasional on call or weekend support required

Requirements

Degree in Mechatronics, Control Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience 3+ years hands on experience as an Automation & Control or Robotics Engineer on electromechanical systems Proficiency with PLC programming and troubleshooting on Allen Bradley (ControlLogix/CompactLogix) and Siemens (Simatic Manager/TIA Portal); Beckhoff a plus Strong HMI development skills; Ignition SCADA preferred, Simatic HMI/FactoryTalk a plus Familiarity with Fanuc or Kuka robot programming and integration with external control platforms Experience with AGV/AMR commissioning, vision systems (Keyence, Sick, Cognex), and SQL/scripting for reporting Competence in creating electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN Knowledge of production quality metrics, LEAN methodology, and high volume manufacturing deployment Excellent written and verbal communication, with a proven ability to present technical programs to diverse audiences Bonus: Linux, Docker, and embedded control system experience