Lead Analytical Technician, Battery Metals & Materials

Tesla Motors, Inc.
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, Texas, Hutto
Sep 18, 2025
What to Expect Scaling the production of battery materials, their precursors and closing the loop with recycling encompass some of the greatest engineering challenges of our time. Tesla's Battery Metals and Materials group is looking for a highly motivated technician to accelerate the transition to renewable energy. You will be responsible for day-to-day analytical lab operations in a growing and dynamic team. You will support advanced materials development, new process technology, and production lines. You will support battery recycling operations for all of North America and Tesla's new lithium refinery. The role is highly dynamic, and you will have the opportunity to use a range of advanced analytical tools including ICP, XRF, AAS, BET, PSA, CH Analysis, XRD, titration etc. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of agility in addressing quality issues and partnering with manufacturing teams to ensure product quality control, while inspiring peak performance from the team. What You'll Do Comply with company regulations and policies while promoting a strong safety culture in the lab Collaborate with EHS on compliance, waste management, MOC, and chemical hygiene activities Manage workflow and track analysis status for incoming samples to ensure quick turnaround Perform sample analysis, battery materials characterization, and troubleshoot lab equipment such as ICP, BET, PSA, SEM, XRD, and XRF for smooth operations Develop test schedules and assign daily or shift tasks to the lab team Provide training to qualify new lab technicians and optimize test methods for improved efficiency Coordinate with production and stakeholders to enhance analytical support and maintain clean lab spaces using 5S principles What You'll Bring A Bachelor's Degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field, or equivalent experience At least two (2) years of hands-on research (university or commercial) experience in disciplines related to metallurgy or inorganic chemistry or materials science or chemical engineering Tangible experience with materials development and common analytical techniques. Some examples might include: (i.e., PSA, BET, SEM, XRD, ICP, FTIR, UV-VIS, NMR, TEM etc.) Must have a strong sense of safety and be able to work either independently or with others Detail oriented with strong record-keeping and organizational skills Command of the English language both written and verbal Essential Physical Demands: Stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs. and work in a fast-paced, noisy environment Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and work in varying temperatures and environments Ability to climb, bend, stoop, and kneel as needed 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: 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