Materials Analysis Technician, Cell Manufacturing

Description:
This role focuses on materials characterization and samples preparation used to investigate cell defects and enable rapid root cause analysis. The Materials Analysis Technician plays an important role in supporting problem solving efforts and improving the quality and reliability of Tesla’s battery cells. The technician will work closely with failure analysis engineers to generate high-quality analytical data supporting critical investigations. The work performed in this role directly supports failure investigations that influence manufacturing decisions, product reliability, and the overall quality of Tesla’s 4680 battery cells.
This role requires strong attention to detail, hands-on laboratory expertise, and a proactive mindset to identify issues, improve workflows, and support fast-paced engineering efforts. Successful candidates are collaborative, curious, and communicative team members who take ownership of their work and contribute to continuous improvement of the failure analysis laboratory.

Responsibilities:
Prepare metallographic samples including sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching of battery components, and perform specialized sample preparation techniques including vacuum impregnation and precision cutting

Operate and utilize analytical techniques including optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and FTIR

Support battery cell autopsy activities including cell teardown, electrode extraction, and preparation of components for analytical characterization

Collaborate closely with engineers and cross-functional teams to support failure analysis and root cause investigations

Document findings, annotating images, and maintain organized data records to support engineering decision-making and communicate observations clearly and escalate potential concerns or anomalies identified during analysis

Proactively identify opportunities to improve sample preparation quality, lab workflows, and characterization efficiency

Requirements:
Experience in materials characterization, metallography, or failure analysis laboratory techniques

Hands-on experience with metallographic sample preparation including grinding, polishing, mounting, and etching

Experience operating optical microscopes and other analytical tools

Strong attention to detail and the ability to consistently produce high-quality, artifact-free samples, and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineers and cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment

Command of the English language, both written and verbal

Essential Physical Demands:
Need to be able to lift, push, and pull, 25lbs.

Can withstand prolonged sitting