What to Expect
Tesla is seeking an Industrial Engineer to lead strategic site planning and operations optimization for our manufacturing facility. You will develop headcount plans, site operations strategies, shift scaling plans, cost models, and capacity roadmaps that shape site operations to translate program milestones into actionable execution plans. Leveraging mathematical modeling, simulation, and heuristic methods, you will partner with cross-functional teams to align technical solutions with Tesla’s production and sustainability objectives. Based in Lathrop, California, this role is critical to optimizing global manufacturing workflows and scaling sustainable production through innovation, ownership, and continuous improvement.
What You'll Do-
Lead site strategic planning initiatives including headcount modeling, site operations strategy, shift scaling and cost strategy, new programs pilots & validation strategies, forecasting site KPI, ensuring alignment with production ramps, new program introductions, and long-term operational goals
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Partner closely with Production Planning, Site Operations, NPI, and Manufacturing Engineering teams to understand site Plan of Record (POR), program timelines, critical milestones, and product roadmaps, translating them into actionable site strategies and resource plans
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Develop and optimize line strategies, buffer sizing, capacity models, and OEE improvement initiatives using advanced data analysis and simulation techniques to ensure site readiness for future production volumes and product mix changes
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Build and maintain cost models for manufacturing operations, analyzing labor cost structures, efficiency drivers, and cost-per-unit economics to support strategic decision-making and continuous cost reduction initiatives
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Design discrete event simulations and optimization models to predict site performance, analyze material flow, test capacity scenarios, and evaluate operational what-if analyses, enabling proactive decision-making for future state operations while driving excellence in current state operations
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Develop and maintain tools and automation solutions using Python, SQL, Tableau, and emerging AI/ML technologies to solve complex operational challenges, continuously refining models by incorporating feedback and staying current with OR best practices to raise the bar for analytical excellence
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Design advanced labor models that accurately predict headcount needs across shifts and teams, optimize staffing levels against productivity metrics, and ensure labor plans support Safety, People, Accuracy, Rate, and Cost (SPARC) objectives
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Operate with high autonomy as a fast-paced executor, owning end-to-end delivery of strategic initiatives from concept through implementation, demonstrating bias for action while maintaining rigorous analytical standards
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Drive operational transformation by deploying Lean Manufacturing tools (Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kanban, Gemba) and Six Sigma/PDCA methodologies to tackle safety, quality, cost, and scalability challenges, leveraging operations research techniques, A3 problem-solving, Theory of Constraints to eliminate waste, optimize processes, and build a culture of ownership & relentless improvement, continuing to raise the bar
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Know the business, collaborate with site leaders, senior management, and executive leadership to shape operational strategy, deliver executive presentations to strategically secure approvals, drive critical decisions, and establish a culture of excellence and accountability
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Degree in Industrial, Operations Mechanical, Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent relevant experience
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Experience in operations research, including optimization techniques, algorithm design, and mathematical modeling (e.g. linear programming, simulation, heuristics), with a focus on knowing the business to drive strategic impact
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Experience with data analytics tools (e.g. Python, R, SQL) and visualization platforms (e.g. Tableau, Power BI, or custom solutions) to support insightful, data-driven leadership
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Familiarity with discrete event simulation tools (e.g. FlexSim, AnyLogic, Arena) and SCADA systems (e.g. Ignition)
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Demonstrated autonomy, establishing culture, and raise the bar through innovation, ownership, and execution
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Exceptional problem-solving skills, with experience in structured methodologies (e.g. DMAIC, 8D, SPC/OCAP), and the ability to improve relentlessly in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
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Proven dependability in delivering results independently and as a leader, with strong communication skills to influence cross-functional teams, drive organizational change, and focus on team dynamics in the current setting
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
Expected Compensation
$86,400 - $129,600/annual salary + 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.
