Demo

Drive Systems Engineering Machinist

Tesla
Palo Alto, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 5/28/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/20/2026
What To Expect
Tesla’s Prototype Machine Shop is seeking a skilled Machinist to join our team and contribute to our mission of accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy. We are looking for a candidate knowledgeable in both manual and CNC machines to enhance the shop utilized by Deer Creek Tesla employees, including Engineers and Technicians. This role offers the opportunity to be an integral part of Tesla’s engineering team, supporting both vehicle and energy organizations with innovative solutions.

Through the Deer Creek Machine Shop, you will provide machined components and valuable insights into machining processes to engineers and technicians across the organization. Your work will help drive component and system designs by turning conceptual ideas into physical products, supporting a wide range of engineering initiatives from pre-production vehicles and energy systems to artificial intelligence and other future-shaping products. Join our world-class team and collaborate on exciting initiatives that drive Tesla’s vision forward.

What You'll Do

  • Assist in maintenance and oversee proper setup of manual mills and lathes
  • Facilitate operation of vertical/horizontal saws and pedestal grinders
  • Handle setup and operation of CNC mills and lathes
  • Cut material, build tooling, and set fixtures for machining tasks
  • Prove and run programs, deburr, and finish parts as needed
  • Machine complex components with tight tolerances in various materials
  • Use inspection and measurement tools to validate work quality
  • Track and document machining processes and results when required
  • Communicate proactively with engineers and team members via multiple channels
  • Maintain a clean, organized workspace and adhere to EH&S and security policies


  • What You'll Bring

  • 5 years of Machine Shop Experience with 3 years of Engineering prototype experience with either lead or supervisory role
  • Ability to identify and procure effective tooling and work-holding solutions for all forms of component manufacturing
  • Proficient with basic shop tools and machines (manual mill, engine lathe, drill press, bandsaw, belt sanders, hand tools etc.)
  • Thorough knowledge and understanding of engineering drawings, documents, and GD&T
  • Thorough knowledge in the use of measurement and inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, gauge pins, bore gauges, optical comparator, etc.
  • Positive energy and attitude, with a passion for prototyping and machining
  • Excellent analytical and mathematical skills
  • Excellent mechanical aptitude
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to develop and present technical information
  • Basic experience with common Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams)


  • Benefits
    Compensation and 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

    $28.80 - $65.40/hour 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.

    Salary : $29 - $65

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