Staff Cell Thermal Modeling Engineer - Palo Alto [265820]

$128,000 - $228,000 yearly

Job Description

Tesla is seeking a simulation expert to lead the technical execution and strategic direction of the Cell Thermal Modeling team. In this pivotal role, you will serve as the technical authority for Tesla’s next-generation cell modeling efforts, bridging the gap between fundamental physics, cell design, and vehicle-level performance.

You will act as a primary technical lead, providing high-level guidance to unblock the team on complex theoretical challenges while managing project timelines and resource allocation across multiple high-priority programs. You will architect the transition toward first-principles, physics-based parameterization and ensure the team delivers critical insights that drive design decisions for both in-house and vendor cell programs.

The Role

  • Technical Leadership & Strategy: Define and enforce the technical standards for the team, specifically driving the methodological shift from empirical curve-fitting to physics-based component parameterization
  • Team Mentorship & "Unblocking": Serve as the primary technical escalation point for the team. Provide deep technical guidance to Senior Engineers to resolve roadblocks in numerical methods, code architecture, or complex thermal phenomena (e.g., hysteresis in non-ideal chemistries)
  • Program Management: Coordinate resources and prioritize tasks across conflicting deadlines for both external vendor programs and internal in-house cell development. Ensure modeling milestones align with critical vehicle program gates
  • Advanced Model Architecture: Architect the frameworks for automated validation and simulation workflows. Review and approve code structure (Python/MATLAB) and modeling methodologies to ensure scalability and transferability
  • Cross-Functional Alignment: Act as the primary liaison between the thermal modeling team and Cell Design, Manufacturing, and Vehicle Systems teams. Translate high-level program goals into actionable modeling tasks
Anthony Antonucci

Qualifications

Relevant experience in Engineering & Information Technology; strong problem-solving skills; commitment to Tesla mission.

Immediate Fill

No