Staff System Validation Engineer, Optimus

Tesla Motors, Inc.
104,000 - 264,000 USD
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, California, Palo Alto
Oct 14, 2025
What to Expect Tesla is at the forefront of developing humanoid robots, known as Optimus, on a large scale to revolutionize automation in manufacturing and material handling. We leverage advanced AI for highly adaptable and autonomous operation. As part of our Optimus Hardware Validation team, we're seeking an exceptional System Validation Engineer to design and implement comprehensive tests at sub-system and system levels. You'll develop innovative methodologies to ensure the reliability, performance, and safety of our cutting-edge humanoid robot. This highly cross-functional role involves collaborating with design engineers, software developers, and controls experts to create efficient testing that delivers optimal results in minimal time. You'll report findings to senior leadership, close the loop on physical design aspects through feedback for future iterations, and lead/mentor other validation engineers. You'll also be responsible for the tests you and your team design and execute. What You'll Do Oversee the design and execution of test plans and advanced validation methodologies for robotic sub-systems and full systems, ensuring robust reliability testing Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in hardware validation Oversee the development and maintenance of automated test scripts and frameworks using Python, optimizing efficiency in validation processes Analyze test data, perform root cause analysis for system-level failures, identify trends, and collaborate cross-functionally to drive resolutions and recommend design improvements What You'll Bring Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics or Robotics Engineering, or relevant experience 8+ years of experience in hardware design/validation, system-level testing, or debugging of electromechanical or robotic systems, preferably in an industrial or high-tech environment Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams, mentoring engineers, and driving validation projects to successful completion Strong programming skills in Python, with expertise in Object-Oriented Programming and developing automated test frameworks; experience in other languages is a plus Extensive experience implementing and troubleshooting communication protocols such as Ethernet or CAN Strong familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git), embedded firmware, and hardware design Expertise in electrical sensors, actuators, test automation, motor controller operation, interfaces, and data acquisition systems are highly desirable Experience using data analysis tools and techniques to interpret results and make recommendations; proficiency in MATLAB, Python, JMP, or Minitab is preferred Exceptional analytical skills to tackle complex technical challenges and develop innovative solutions for system-level validation 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 $104,000 - $264,000/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.