Sr. Automation Controls Engineer, Cell Engineering

Tesla Motors, Inc.
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, Texas, Austin
Mar 27, 2026
What to Expect Automation Control Engineers specialize in designing and deploying high-speed mass manufacturing systems engineered for sub-millisecond scan rate and deterministic performance. This includes architecting and implementing ultra-precise automation solutions across process and discrete production lines while maintaining rigorous control standards for truly scalable systems. We cover a huge range of machinery and process types include mixing, pulling, winding, calendering, stamping, etc. We also build and implement the material flow, coordination and optimization necessary to deliver manufacturing at a truly mass-production scale. From development, to commissioning and scaling, controls engineers enable the next generation of manufacturing. What You'll Do Program and debug structure text and ladder logic code on multiple PLC controller platforms (Beckhoff, Siemens, Inovance) Develop code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable and reusable Create robust programs and sequences to control complex, multi-station machinery to perform processes such as material pick and place, dispense, fastening, welding, testing and material transport Design and optimize model predictive controllers, PID controllers and LQR controllers in high-speed manufacturing settings for process and discrete equipment Create intuitive operator touchscreen interfaces using WinCC/Ignition/TwinCAT HMI and SCADA dashboards screens using Ignition, Grafana Set up and tune servo drives and VFDs for fast and smooth operation (Schneider, B&R, Beckhoff, Siemens, SEW) Design and implement control reliable safety systems for safeguarding robots, gantries, conveyors, and other high-volume manufacturing equipment as per codes and standards Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, pneumatic and fluid plumbing Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and carefully balance product specifications, process requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead-time limits Manage suppliers during specification, design, buyoff and installation of automated manufacturing equipment What You'll Bring Bachelor's Degree in Electrical, Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Science or 5+ years' experience in Control Systems Design and Implementation or equivalent experience Understanding of controls theory Understanding of electronics Fluency in at least one programming language, C++/C#/Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) preferred 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