Destructive Physical Analysis Technician, Battery Cell Components

Tesla Motors, Inc.
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, Texas, Austin
Oct 30, 2025
What to Expect The Destructive Physical Analysis Team at Tesla is dedicated to delivering critical fault analysis data to minimize field issues, working closely with a diverse range of engineering teams. In this high-visibility individual contributor role, the technician will focus on hands-on fault analysis and sample collection by performing detailed measurements and material analysis on lithium-ion battery cell components. The role involves dissecting battery cells to identify safety and performance-related defects, collaborating with manufacturing teams to escalate findings, and driving improvements in product quality, reliability, and durability. What You'll Do Perform detailed dissection and sample analysis of lithium-ion battery cells Utilize analytical tools and techniques such as microscopic inspection and elemental analysis Identify and document failure modes and signatures in battery components Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to report findings and escalate issues Maintain and operate specialized equipment for battery dissection and analysis Ensure accurate data collection and reporting to support quality and reliability improvements Follow established protocols to handle sensitive materials and maintain safety standards What You'll Bring Associate's Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience Strong experience with electrical test equipment including power supplies, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and microscopes Extensive hands-on experience with hand tools, basic power tools, soldering, and instrumentation Proficiency in detecting and analyzing failure signatures in battery components Familiarity with failure analysis techniques such as CT image analysis, SEM, and optical microscopy Fine electronics and soldering skills preferred Must have 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 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: Aetna PPO and HSA plans > 2 medical 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 Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Aetna 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 Employee Assistance Program Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary 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