What to Expect
Battery cells are central to Tesla's mission, and the 4680 cell is redefining what is possible in cell technology and manufacturing at a scale the industry has not seen before. In this role, you will work across engineering, manufacturing, supplier groups, and many other teams, so a team-first mindset and the ability to thrive in a fast-moving environment are essential.
We are looking for a failure analysis and materials expert to join the Cell FA Engineering team in Austin, TX. In this role, you will lead internal failure analysis efforts, perform regular cell teardown analyses, and coordinate special investigations using your knowledge of failure analysis methods, techniques, and tools. This is a hands-on role that requires significant time on the factory floor and in the lab, as well as developing the skills of the local team. Good communication skills are a must, as you will regularly share and discuss technical findings with a wide range of teams across the organization.
What You'll Do
- Lead battery failure analysis on degraded and defective cells using various characterization tools, including SEM, EDS, FTIR, etc.
- Conduct full-cell destructive physical analysis (DPA), including basic sample preparation and electrode extraction
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Learn and execute standardized test procedures for key cell failure modes, including internal shorts, capacity fade, swelling, and thermal runaway
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Continuously improve sample preparation quality, laboratory workflows, and characterization efficiency through proactive identification of process gaps
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive corrective actions and improve cell reliability, analytical process robustness, and manufacturing yield
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Document and communicate findings through clear, actionable reports, including root cause analysis, failure mechanisms, and mitigation recommendations
What You'll Bring
- Degree in Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or equivalent experience
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3+ years of experience in failure analysis, with exposure to cells, battery modules and packs, power electronics, materials, or manufacturing systems
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Hands-on experience with optical microscopes and various analytical characterization tools (SEM, EDS, FTIR, etc.)
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Proficiency with data analysis tools (Python, MATLAB, or Excel)
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Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills with demonstrated ability to convey findings effectively across teams and levels
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Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced team environment
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Understanding of lithium-ion battery chemistry and failure mechanisms preferred
Compensation and Benefits
Benefits
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
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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
Tesla is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.
Tesla is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.
