Controls Technician

What to Expect Tesla is seeking a highly motivated Controls Technician with strong electrical, PLC, and safety device integration skills to support the ramp-up of in-house Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and advanced manufacturing automation. In this role, you will commission, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-controlled systems, including completing safety buyoffs and Automation cell handshakes with AMRs, in a fast-paced, demanding environment. You'll contribute to critical systems powering Tesla's exciting products, working alongside cross-functional teams to ensure seamless operations.


What You'll Do

• Collaborate with Controls Engineers to program, troubleshoot, and maintain controls components, including PLCs, HMIs, robots, and AMR systems
• Perform commissioning of I/O components (e.g., I/O blocks, area scanners, safe radars) post-power-on, including safety buyoffs and Automation cell integrations
• Troubleshoot PLC and I/O devices, electrical cabinets (24VDC to 480VAC 3-phase), VFDs, servo drives, and motion systems
• Conduct basic network troubleshooting (TCP/IP, UDP and Profinet) to restore device communications
• Read and interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, PLC code, and HMI screens to diagnose and resolve issues
• Support conveyors, lifters, AGVs/AMRs, robotics, and safety devices (e.g., area scanners)
• Partner with Controls Engineers, Equipment Engineers, and Maintenance Technicians to address recurring issues and drive continuous improvements
• Adhere strictly to LOTO, electrical safety, and company procedures when working on energized systems
• Demonstrate flexibility in a dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and providing off-hours/weekend support as needed

What You'll Bring

• Minimum 2+ years of experience in automation, electromechanical systems, or manufacturing controls
• Degree or trade school certification in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Instrumentation, Mechatronics, or related field, or equivalent experience
• Technical degree, associate's, or trade school certification in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Instrumentation, Mechatronics, or related field
• Strong electrical background with hands-on experience troubleshooting wiring diagrams and cabinets (24VDC to 480VAC 3-phase)
• Proficiency in PLC/HMI programming and troubleshooting (e.g., ladder logic, structured text) using Siemens TIA Portal
• Skilled in terminating controls devices and working with motor controls, VFDs, and electronic components
• Ability to read electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, P&IDs, and PLC/HMI code
• Command of the English language, both written and verbal
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment
• Knowledge of AMR/AGV systems, robotics, and safety integrations (e.g., area scanners, Light Curtains)

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