Systems Design Architect Engineer, Abuse

Tesla Motors, Inc.
84,000 - 168,000 USD
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, California, Palo Alto
Dec 02, 2025
What to Expect This role focuses on owning and maintaining cell abuse requirements across various cell and module architectures while conducting experimental abuse testing to understand thermal runaway first principles. The engineer will write clear, executable requirements to ensure cell abuse performance throughout a cell model's lifecycle, adapting to new risks during cell and module qualification. Additionally, collaboration with design teams is essential to propose solutions when cells fail to meet requirements. The position also involves hands-on testing and data analysis to support Tesla's battery engineering initiatives. What You'll Do Own and maintain cell abuse requirement documents for multiple architectures Collaborate with internal and external test teams to ensure accurate and complete testing Perform risk analysis on new cell and module architectures to identify potential issues Conduct independent experimental abuse R&D on new cells to illustrate thermal runaway fundamentals Propose design changes to meet requirements when cells fail to comply Stay updated on Tesla's cell portfolio and maintain working knowledge of associated risks Process large datasets and present findings to broad audiences for decision-making What You'll Bring Degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or equivalent experience Experience writing requirements Familiarity with external cell abuse standards such as UN38.3 and UL1642 Hands-on experience in testing, fabrication, and teardown of battery cells Proficiency in data acquisition systems, crush systems, and high-speed video filming techniques Solid foundation in electrochemistry, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics a plus Ability to design experiments and analyze data 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 Expected Compensation $84,000 - $168,000/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.