New

Sr. Engineer, Tribology, Drive Systems

Tesla Motors, Inc.
109,600 - 199,020 USD
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, California, Palo Alto
Jan 23, 2026
What to Expect TheDrive System Engineeringteam is looking for a world class engineer specialized in tribology modeling and EIBD (Electrical Induced Bearing Damage) analysis throughanalyticalsimulationandengineeringtesting.In addition,individual isexpected to furtheroptimizeexistingtribology basedlubrication and gearboxmodelsof Tesla drive unit toassistfuture design projects. Our world-class engineering teamsoperatewith a non-conventional automotive product development philosophy of high inter-disciplinary collaboration, flat organizational structure, and technical contribution at all levels.You will be expected to challenge and to be challenged, to create, to innovate. You must want to work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial company. We are building real products. This must excite you.We are not interested in traditional me too and marginal design thinking-first principle based fundamental thinking is key to succeed in Tesla innovation.You'llwork alongside accomplished, world-renowned engineers onperhaps themost exciting automotive programs in existence today. This positionwithin the DriveSystemEngineering teamwork side by side with engineers to support the development of our world class drive units.Projects can be open-ended, and the individual must strive in a challenging environment. This is a non-traditional role ascandidateis expected but not limited to lead and work collaboratively with existing team membersonthe following process. What You'll Do Understand system specs and sensitivities Optimizeand innovate existing high fidelitytribologysystem modeland build new model to connectwith in house electromagneticmodel to inform future designs Optimizethe existing andinnovate new tribology andEIBD characterization testing equipment and testing methods Understand the existing EIBD migration system design and input variables Validate andoptimizemodel throughtribometer level and drive unit levelcharacterization testing Analyze data and findmostcostfriendlyEIBD mitigation solution which meet design requirements Organize cross functional teams to tackle this systemchallenge Optimizethe current system tribology model Applytribologysimulation toassistdesign projects What You'll Bring UnderstandingofEIBD mechanism indrive unit (drive inverter, electric motor, and gearbox),corresponding failure mechanism, and mitigation solutions Understandingofbearing failure mechanism Background in electrical engineering and mechanical engineering Experience with data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, Python, etc.) Experience in 3D modelinga plus. CATIA preferred Experience with instrumentation, measurement, calibration, andtribologylaboratory testing Modeling architecture experience a plus Working knowledge ofdriveunitand understanding of bearinglubricationa plus 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 $109,600 - $199,020/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.