Vehicle Test Driver & Thermal Technician

What to Expect

Tesla is seeking a versatile and motivated individual to join our team in a dual-role capacity as a Vehicle Test Driver and Entry-Level Thermal Technician. This position supports critical testing and validation efforts for vehicle firmware and thermal systems, ensuring the performance, safety, and reliability of Tesla's cutting‑edge electric vehicles. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, adaptable, and eager to contribute to both on‑road testing and laboratory‑based thermal analysis under the guidance of senior engineers.

This opportunity will require the flexibility of traveling up to 50% based on business needs.

• Conduct on‑road and on‑track testing of Tesla vehicles to validate firmware and software updates under various conditions
• Follow detailed test plans and protocols to evaluate vehicle performance, handling, and system functionality
• Document test results, identify anomalies, and provide detailed feedback to engineering teams for firmware improvements
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols during all test drives and report any safety concerns or vehicle issues promptly
• Assist in the setup, execution, and monitoring of thermal tests for vehicle components and systems in a lab environment
• Collect and record data during thermal testing, ensuring accuracy and consistency for analysis by engineering teams
• Support the maintenance and calibration of test equipment, ensuring readiness for thermal experiments
• Collaborate with thermal engineers to troubleshoot issues and implement basic test configurations as directed

• Associate degree or technical certification in automotive technology, engineering, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience
• Prior experience in vehicle testing, automotive repair, or laboratory testing is a plus but not required
• Valid driver’s license; ability to operate vehicles in diverse conditions (urban, highway, and test track)
• Basic understanding of vehicle systems and/or thermal dynamics; willingness to learn and follow technical instructions
• Strong attention to detail and ability to document observations clearly and accurately
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment with shifting priorities and tight deadlines
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with cross‑functional teams and report findings
• Ability to sit for extended periods during test drives and stand or work in a lab setting for thermal testing tasks
• Willingness to work in varying weather conditions during vehicle testing and in controlled lab environments for thermal tasks
• Flexibility to work non‑standard hours, including early mornings, late evenings, or weekends, as testing schedules demand

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