What to Expect
Tesla’s Cell Engineering team at San Diego is seeking a highly motivated CNC Machinist Apprentice to support cell prototype build parts, production equipment, custom fixturing, and specialized components. In this role, you will learn, adapt, and develop your skills under the direct mentorship of an expert CNC Machinist. You will directly support all aspects of cell prototype line activities, including cell builds, metrology, abuse testing, and failure analysis in a fast-paced R&D environment.
What You'll Do
- Machine Operation: Learn to safely set up, operate, and maintain our HAAS VF-2SS with a 4th-axis rotary, manual mill, and lathe
- Software Training: Master industry-standard CAD/CAM software platforms, specifically Mastercam and SolidWorks
- Programming: Learn to program a CNC Mill, as well as alter, optimize, and proof numerical control (NC) code
- Conventional Machining: Perform manual machining tasks to create precision components
- Prototype Production: Manufacture high-precision prototypes and low-volume parts, with occasional higher-volume runs of 100 to 300 pieces
- Engineering Collaboration: Partner with engineers to interpret sketches, drafts, and prototypes, while learning to accurately quote machining lead times
- Quality Inspection: Utilize precision measuring equipment—including calipers, micrometers, pin gauges, and indicators—to inspect parts
- Print Reading: Learn and apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles to interpret technical drawings accurately
What You'll Bring
- Safety Mindset: An absolute "safety first" commitment to maintaining a secure and clean machine shop environment
- Manual Machining: Hands-on foundational experience operating manual machine shop equipment
- CNC Foundations: Basic experience or exposure operating CNC Mills
- ProtoTRAK Lathe: Experience operating a ProtoTRAK Lathe is considered a strong plus
- CAM Software: Prior exposure to Mastercam software is a plus
- CAD Software: Prior exposure to SolidWorks software is a plus
- Adaptability: Strong desire to learn, accept mentorship, and thrive in a highly dynamic prototype environment
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
-
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
Expected Compensation
$20.29 - $30.44/hour + cash and stock awards + benefits
Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.
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.
