Sr. Failure Analysis Engineer, Analytical Chemistry

Tesla Motors, Inc.
84,000 - 192,000 USD
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, California, Palo Alto
Jan 07, 2026
What to Expect The Failure Analysis teamdeterminesroot cause and contributing factors to improve Tesla products in collaboration with a large cross-section of engineering teams. Engineers on the team handle a wide variety of vehicle and energy systems including the existing fleet and new products under development. This is a high-visibility individual contributor role that requires extensive hands-on failure analysis of electromechanical components. You will investigate failures in systems such as power electronics, mechanical components, and low voltage devices. You will drive reliability growth and innovation in Tesla vehicles and energy solutions through advanced analytical chemistry and materialsexpertise. What You'll Do Lead failure analysis on electromechanical components using analytical chemistry techniques including DSC, TGA, FTIR, Raman, GC/MS, HPLC, and chromatography methods Perform materials characterization toidentifyroot causes such as chemical degradation, contamination, or structural defects Apply failure analysis methods like cross-sectioning, polishing, SEM, XRF, microscopy, and hardness testing to evaluate components Use fault tree analysis, failure modes and effects analysis, and root cause analysis to model and prioritize failure mechanisms Interpret test data from non-destructive and destructive evaluations to recommend design or process changes Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve issues and prevent recurrence Develop testing protocols and analysis methods for complex investigations including statistical tools like Weibull analysis Manage lab workflows including equipment maintenance and calibration Produce technical reports and presentations on findings for stakeholders Support continuous improvement in materials standards for high-voltage systems What You'll Bring PhD in Materials Science, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience 0-2 years of experience in failure analysis or materials characterization (academic research or internships count) Proficiencyin lab techniques including DSC, TGA, FTIR, Raman, GC/MS, chromatography, cross-sectioning, polishing, SEM, XRF, microscopy, and hardness testing Familiarity with failure analysis frameworks such as fault tree analysis, failure modes and effects analysis, root cause analysis, and statistical reliability methods Experience leading complex investigations ofcomponentfailurespreferred Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills in fast-paced environments Ability to develop new methods and manage priorities in dynamic settings 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 $84,000 - $192,000/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.