Reliability Engineer, Cell Design Engineering

We are seeking a detail-oriented reliability engineer to drive the application of reliability principles across Tesla's large-format in-house battery cell development. This role focuses on quantifying and improving reliability, availability, and maintainability (RAM) through advanced analytical methods, ensuring design-for-reliability (DFR) and design-for-x (DFX) principles are embedded in product development. The ideal candidate will leverage statistical and probabilistic models to predict failure modes, optimize system resilience, and support data-driven decision-making.

Your work will directly impact the reliability and longevity of Tesla's battery systems, enabling safer, more efficient electric vehicles and energy storage solutions. By applying advanced reliability engineering techniques, you'll help define the future of sustainable energy.

• Calculate MTBF, MTTR, and availability; analyze failure data to identify trends and root causes
• Apply Reliability Block Diagrams (RBD) to model system reliability and identify critical failure paths
• Conduct Weibull analysis, Duane plots, and Crow-AMSAA (NHPP) to assess reliability growth during development
• Develop and validate Reliability Growth Models to track progress toward reliability targets
• Collaborate with design/quality teams to integrate DFR principles into battery cell development
• Perform DFMEA and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) to evaluate failure risks and recommend mitigation strategies
• Use NUDD (New Unit Development Document) to define reliability requirements for new cell designs
• Build predictive models for lifetime forecasting using accelerated testing, real-world data, and simulated stress
• Design and optimize reliability tests to capture critical degradation mechanisms
• Partner with cross-functional teams to resolve reliability challenges and mentor staff

• Degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Reliability Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• Proficiency in calculating RAM metrics (MTBF, MTTR) and analyzing failure data using Weibull, Crow-AMSAA, and Duane plots
• Familiarity with Reliability Block Diagrams (RBD) and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA)
• Understanding of DFR/DFX principles and tools like DFMEA and NUDD
• Strong coding skills in Python/MATLAB for data analysis, statistical modeling, and visualization
• Experience with electrochemical test equipment and battery cell characterization
• Ability to develop novel test concepts and interpret complex data
• Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
• Passion for advancing battery technology through rigorous engineering practices
• Self-motivated, hands-on, and capable of managing lab testing timelines

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