Failure Analysis Engineer, Cell Engineering

Description:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and technically proficient Battery Cell Failure Analysis (FA) Test Engineer to join our battery test team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for diagnosing, analyzing, and resolving electrical, mechanical, and chemical failures in lithium-ion battery cells during development, production, and field returns. You will play a critical role in improving cell reliability, safety, and performance by leading root cause analysis (RCA), designing test protocols, and collaborating cross-functionally with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams.

Responsibilities:
Conduct in-depth failure analysis on defective or degraded battery cells using advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., SEM, X-ray CT, EIS, DSC, TGA)
Develop and execute test plans for cell-level failure modes including internal shorts, capacity fade, swelling, thermal runaway, and electrolyte degradation
Perform electrical and electrochemical characterization (cycling, impedance spectroscopy, charge/discharge profiling) to identify performance anomalies
Document findings with clear, actionable reports, including root cause analysis, failure mechanisms, and mitigation recommendations
Collaborate with materials scientists, process engineers, and manufacturing teams to implement corrective actions and prevent recurrence
Maintain and calibrate FA test equipment; ensure compliance with safety and quality
Support product validation and reliability testing programs
Stay current with emerging battery technologies, failure mechanisms, and industry best practices

Requirements:
Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Chemical Engineering or equivalent experience
2+ years of hands-on industry experience in battery cell testing, failure analysis, or R&D in the energy storage or EV industry
Proficiency with battery testing equipment (e.g., Arbin, Newware, Bio-Logic and etc) and data analysis tools (Python, MATLAB, Excel)
Strong understanding of lithium-ion battery chemistry (NMC, LFP, NCA), cell architecture (prismatic, cylindrical), and failure mechanisms
Experience with non-destructive and destructive analytical techniques (X-ray, SEM, DSC, TGA)
Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment with attention to detail and safety

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
$104,120 - $156,180/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.