Structural Test Engineer

Job Description

Structural (Static) Test Engineer (Fremont, CA)

The Structural Test Engineer is a member of the Safety Systems Engineering team which is part of Vehicle Engineering Organization, responsible for the upstream design and validation of the vehicles we develop.

The ideal candidate will be actively involved in the development, implementation and application of advanced test suites for the purposed of design validation and improvement of structural systems in our vehicles including BIW, Chassis, Battery, etc. These tests are highly involved and critical to every vehicle program we develop. The ideal candidate has a proven record of success defined by completed projects and demonstrated knowledge in fields including structural strength, fracture mechanics, machine design and hydraulics to name a few.

He/She should have a proven record of success in the design of structural fixtures and machines and in the application of test methodologies. He/she must have a broad technical background with the ability to work with engineering, manufacturing and quality personnel across a wide variety of engineering issues. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are an absolute requirement to establish effective working relationships within and outside of Tesla.

The successful candidate for this position takes pride in his/her hands-on and analytical abilities, organization skills and attention to detail. He/She appreciates an environment where superior work is encouraged, noticed and rewarded.

Essential Functions and Duties:

· Execute internal/external tests and validation activities.

· Design, implement, and execute robust systems for static testing of vehicle subsystems. This can include hydraulic systems (i.e. closed loop force controlled hydraulic ram), electro-mechanical systems (i.e. universal presses to simulate the forces of a crash) , and static structures (i.e. barriers or restraints to secure test samples).

· Support the definition of critical features for the product design throughout product development stages.

· Develop test and validation plans to insure reliability, design, and structural performance targets are met and/or exceeded.

· Report on issues found during test and continue to work closely with Engineering, CAE, Quality and Manufacturing teams to address these to improve the product under test.

· Provide technical guidance and mentorship to interns in the area of structural design and validation best practices.

Skills and Experience:

· BS or higher degree in Mechanical Engineering (MSME Preferred) Relevant work experience is essential.

· 3+ years experience working in a related mechanical/structural engineering role

· 3+ years experience in structural design and/or testing

· Prior experience in automotive/aerospace testing validation environment a big plus

· Possess the ability to design, from scratch if necessary, reliable test stands capable of high static loads (>50tons) for component testing.

· Proven ability in CAD design (CATIA preferred) for fabrication and material handling; Awareness of industry standard techniques and methods (i.e. cutting, welding, machining, and rigging).

· Experience with hydraulic systems

· Familiarity with controls and data acquisition programs and software

(i.e. Matlab, Labview, MTS Systems)

· Familiarity with strain-gage based instruments (e.g. load cells and pressure sensors)

· Understanding or specific training of reliability theories and their application preferred

· Ability to select the most appropriate method of test, instrumentation, materials, and fabrication techniques to meet deadlines and budgets while achieving first-rate test results

· Hands on capabilities and knowledge of machining and fabrication techniques preferred

· Understanding of basic electronics principles and measurement systems

· Experience with validation of Aluminum structures a plus

· Able to work well under pressure while managing competing demands and tight deadlines

· Remain engaged, proactive and positive in tough circumstances, owning assignments and taking full accountability for their success

· Maintain flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and assignments, coping with rapidly changing information

· Work efficiently and productively in independent and team settings

· Communicate clearly using excellent written and verbal skills

· Strong organization skills with meticulous attention to detail

· Passion for testing and “cradle to grave” approach in validation projects

· Self-initiative and strong desire to learn new skills and/or create innovative test methods

· Fluent with common MS office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project)

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