Materials Engineer, Cell Electrode

Tesla is seeking a highly motivated Materials Engineer to characterize electrode materials from our advanced battery cell pilot and mass production lines.

The battery cell represents one of the most complex and critical components in Tesla's portfolio. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the evolution of Tesla's world-class manufacturing capabilities. You will join a fast-paced, innovative environment, supporting the development and scaling of dry electrode manufacturing for Tesla's battery cells.

As a Materials Engineer, you will characterize electrode materials, conduct failure and root cause analyses for electrode process defects, and prepare reports to convey results and insights to cross-functional teams. You will partner with internal and external stakeholders across Product & Material Design, Equipment, Process, Cell Qualification, and Production to deepen our understanding of how processes affect materials and electrochemical performance. This is essential for transitioning new manufacturing processes, materials, and battery designs from concept to full-scale production. The ideal candidate is hands-on, analytical, detail-oriented, and excels in an environment that values innovation and accountability.

• Perform hands-on characterization of electrodes, including electrochemical (coin/pouch cell) and mechanical performance testing
• Lead defect analysis and design of experiments (DOEs) to identify root causes of electrode defects
• Develop and standardize electrode characterization methods for site-wide and global implementation
• Analyze data from various processes and equipment to assess the impact of changes on electrode properties
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., Product & Material Design, Equipment, Process, Cell Qualification, and Quality) to ensure dry electrodes meet design targets
• Draft standard operating procedures (SOPs), develop testing methods, and maintain testing equipment

• Degree in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience
• 3+ years of experience in battery cell testing and materials characterization
• Experience in process development or manufacturing engineering is a strong plus
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with coin cell and pouch cell assembly and testing
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with materials characterization techniques relevant to electrodes, such as SEM, EDS, XRF, FTIR, XPS, TGA, and DMA
• Proficiency in statistical data analysis and visualization of large datasets using tools like Python, SQL, JMP, or equivalents
• Experience handling powders and electrode materials in controlled environments; comfort working under PAPR and with respirators if required
• Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals and electrochemistry
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including the ability to prepare technical reports and present findings to cross-functional teams and stakeholders

Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

• Aetna PPO and HSA plans > 2 medical 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 Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Aetna 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
• Employee Assistance Program
• Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary 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

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.