Sr. Vehicle Dynamics Modeling Engineer, Semi Truck, Vehicle Dynamics Team

What to Expect

The Vehicle Dynamics Modeling team are the system architects of our vehicles' driving dynamics. We are at the heart of what makes a Tesla objectively drive like a Tesla. Our work spans the full spectrum of simulation and analysis: from rapid, first principles calculations in Python scripts, to high-fidelity multi-body dynamics models in Dymola. Using this powerful suite of in-house and commercial tools, we predict and shape the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical dynamic behaviors from the earliest architectural concepts to the final production tuning. Our work is central to the engineering process, providing data-driven insights that guide design decisions and ensure our vehicles deliver a world-class experience. We operate in a highly collaborative environment where we challenge assumptions, learn from one another, and continuously improve our methods to solve the next generation of engineering challenges.

As a Senior Vehicle Dynamics Modeling Engineer, you will have a direct and measurable impact on the future of our vehicle lineup. You will take cradle-to-grave ownership of the models that define vehicle performance. Your primary focus will be on the Tesla Trucks program, where you will work with Chassis Design, NVH, Control Systems, and Autopilot teams to develop and integrate all contributing vehicle systems to produce world-class vehicle dynamics attributes. This is a role for an engineer who wants to go beyond rote analysis and fundamentally improve how we design and build cars.

What You'll Do

• Architect the driving feel of Tesla Semi Trucks by developing, validating, correlating, and deploying multi-axle vehicle models to guide ride, handling, and driver control development
• Drive development with data by creating objective metrics that align simulation with real-world performance, designing and supporting vehicle tests to gather high-quality data
• Enhance engineering processes by evolving tools and methodologies for multi-axle truck analysis, enabling faster and more optimal decision-making across the organization
• Act as a trusted technical advisor by translating complex simulation results into actionable insights for cross-functional teams including chassis, NVH, controls, and Autopilot
• Integrate vehicle models into SIL and HIL platforms, serving as the subject matter expert for system integration
• Balance performance trade-offs between vehicle dynamics attributes, NVH, cost, and manufacturability to achieve optimal product outcomes
• Collaborate with teams to provide data-driven insights that guide design decisions from early architectural concepts to final production tuning

What You'll Bring

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience
• Extensive experience in vehicle dynamics modeling, simulation, and analysis for multi-axle or heavy-duty vehicles
• Proficiency in multi-body dynamics tools such as Dymola or similar software
• Strong background in data analysis and scripting with tools like Python for engineering calculations
• Demonstrated ability to correlate simulation models with real-world test data
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate vehicle systems
• Proven problem-solving skills with adaptability to navigate complex engineering trade-offs

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

Expected Compensation $112,000 - $228,000/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.