START Manufacturing Trainee, Automation Controls

Tesla START is an intensive 14-week training program that provides students across North America with the skills necessary for a successful career at Tesla and beyond. During the program, students develop technical expertise and earn certifications through in-class theory, hands-on labs, and self-paced learning. This is a non-exempt position. Successful graduates of the program will have the opportunity to accept full-time employment at a Tesla Factory within 30 days of graduation.

• Internals will be considered based on shop allocation. Must be an internal from a shop that has a designated allocation to be considered.*

As a START trainee focusing on Automation Controls, you will prepare to work alongside production, maintenance, and engineering teams within the Optimus manufacturing environment. You will utilize electrical engineering theory and programmable logic software to root cause and fix issues that cause equipment downtime. The program effectively prepares you to support hands-on robot builds, machine performance analysis, testing, and documentation.

What You'll Do

• Work with maintenance and engineers to identify root causes to downtime on automation equipment utilizing electrical hand tools and diagnostic software
• Validate machine repairs using machine data and document machine performance based on engineering changes
• Collaborate with Engineering teams to address PLC bugs and repetitive downtimes, providing clear reports through pass-down communications
• Support SCADA projects and HMIs to help operators and maintenance with their workflow
• Execute technician tasks independently after initial instruction, maintaining exceptional change control discipline

• Attend and pass each training session with an 80% or higher GPA
• Demonstrated interest or educational background in Mechatronics, Automation, Electrical Engineering, or Robotics
• Ability to learn to read electrical schematics (EPLAN) and understand communication protocols (EtherCAT, CAN). Familiarity with Python, Structured Text, or Ladder Logic is a plus
• Must be a self-starter able to work in a team-based environment with a "safety first" attitude
• Must have command of the English language, both written and verbal, and follow instructions with attention to detail
• Demonstrate basic computer skills, including navigating web browsers and using standard applications like Microsoft Office
• Ability to lift to 37 lbs., climb ladders, and work a compressed workweek schedule as part of a 24/7 operation

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
• Earned Wage Access: Real-time pay access paid daily, subject to eligibility and schedule (applicable for below Sr. Managers levels)