Software Engineer, Onboard Diagnostics
Tesla
Palo Alto, California Posted October 26, 2026
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Job Description
Description:
We are seeking a Software Engineer to build and own the diagnostic software that runs on our vehicles. You will develop the in-house frameworks at the core of vehicle diagnostics, including our Diagnostic Event Manager (DEM), the per-ECU process responsible for monitoring fault conditions and triggering Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). You will also support homologation teams in meeting evolving diagnostic and regulatory requirements worldwide. This role spans embedded firmware, diagnostic protocols, and compliance, and requires close collaboration across hardware, software, and service teams.
Responsibilities:
Develop and extend the Diagnostic Event Manager and DTC stack across vehicle controllers, defining how faults are detected, debounced, persisted to non-volatile memory, and reported over standard protocols such as UDS, CAN, and DoIP
Integrate the diagnostic framework across a range of controllers, embedded targets, and vehicle platforms, and manage versioned updates to these shared components in lockstep
Work with homologation teams to translate evolving diagnostic and regulatory requirements into actionable engineering work, and support certification and reporting activities
Build test infrastructure (e.g., SIL/HIL) that validates DEM and DTC behavior consistently across controllers and platforms
Develop diagnostic tooling and service routines that help technicians accurately identify and clear faults in the field
Monitor fleet-wide diagnostic data to track DTC trigger rates, and build dashboards that surface trends, catch regressions, and feed top field issues back to development teams
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to refine internal processes, streamline development, and drive on-time product releases
Document technical procedures and create guidelines that enhance collaboration and knowledge transfer
Requirements:
Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience
Proficiency in C/C++ or similar languages for embedded firmware development
Experience with automotive communication networks and diagnostic protocols (CAN, LIN, UDS, DoIP) for system development, validation, and troubleshooting
Experience developing across heterogeneous embedded targets and multiple vehicle platforms
Familiarity with diagnostic standards and concepts (e.g., DTCs, SAE J1979, ISO 13400)
Strong organizational skills to manage multiple timelines, prepare accurate documentation, and address audits
Excellent communication skills for coordination with cross-functional teams and, where needed, regulatory and industry bodies
Proven background in automotive diagnostics, including hands-on development of embedded diagnostic software, is a plus
Familiarity with global OBD regulations and certification processes is a plus
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
Expected Compensation
$140,000 - $252,000/annual salary + cash and stock awards + benefitsPay 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.
Required Skills
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