Controls Technician

Description:
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.

Responsibilities:

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

Requirements:

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 & 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