Pathway to START Program (Fall 2026)

What To Expect
This position is expected to start in Fall 2026. This internship program is not for students who are actively enrolled in an academic program. Actively enrolled students seeking employment in Service should apply for the Internship, Service Technician Trainee role. Active automotive technicians, or graduates of an automotive or related schooling, should apply for the START Service Technician role. Tailored to leverage your skills and training, it offers a clear step forward in your professional journey.

The Pathway to START Program is an introductory course for those with limited or no automotive experience who want to start a career in the automotive industry. The program is an 8-week hybrid model: part virtual lecture, part onsite service center support. This service training program is designed to provide candidates with the fundamental mechanical and electrical skills necessary to successfully enter the START Program. Upon successful completion of both internships, graduates must remain flexible to relocate anywhere in the US for job placement.

What You'll Do

Dedicate a minimum of 40 hours per week to training, including active participation in virtual instructor led training and on-site service center support

Maintain consistent and professional rapport with instructor and onsite service management

Develop a comprehensive understanding of Tesla vehicles and learn the fundamentals of using basic hand tools

Prioritize safety by adhering to established protocols at all times

Demonstrate ability to effectively handle multiple priorities, organize workload, and meet deadlines

Maintain a 100% attendance throughout the 8-week program

What You'll Bring

Attend and pass each of the 8-week training sessions with a score of 85% or higher

Must be capable of reporting to a local service center for training throughout program, and upon completion remain flexible to relocating anywhere in the US for job placement

Must be willing to attend the 16-week, START program after the 8-week program is completed

Must follow verbal and written instructions with attention to detail and be able to lift up to 60 lbs.

Be able to work in a team-based environment and have a "safety first" attitude

Basic computer skills, including navigating web browsers and using standard applications such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Valid driver’s license required

Benefits
Compensation and Benefits
As a full-time Tesla Intern, you will be eligible for:

Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction

Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits

Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans. Both have an option with a $0 payroll contribution

Company Paid (Health Savings Account) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High Deductible Medical Plan with HSA

Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits

Company Paid Basic Life, AD&D, and short-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)

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

Commuter benefits

Employee discounts and perks program

We will accept applications for this job until December 11, 2026, after which this posting will be removed., Tesla