Mechanical Test Engineer, Vehicle Engineering Internship (May 2026)

Join Tesla as a Mechanical Test Engineer Intern to design and build test equipment, manage projects, and automate test processes in a dynamic, sustainable energy-focused environment.

Your Role

Here’s what you will be doing:

• Design and build custom test equipment using components such as linear actuators, motors, pumps, and general system design to ensure efficient, modular, and repeatable validation
• Manage projects from initial concept through design, assembly, and final commissioning
• Write and maintain test software to automate execution, data collection, and analysis
• Develop and maintain validation schedules to coordinate test resources and communicate status to program managers
• Work across multiple teams including Thermal Management, Structures, Power Electronics Manufacturing, Drive Unit, ADAS, Capability Development, Design For Reliability, Battery, Low Voltage, and Photo Instrumentation Technology

About You

The company is looking for:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Vehicle Engineering, Computer Science, Photographic Sciences, or a related field
• Proven technical experience through extracurricular activities, academic projects, passion projects, or equivalent experiences
• Excellent grasp of engineering fundamentals with experience using hand tools, motors, actuators, power supplies, multimeters, and reading drawings
• Eagerness to collaborate cross-functionally while working independently to drive projects forward; detail-oriented and execution focused
• Strong troubleshooting skills with a genuine curiosity to identify root causes of issues
• Hands-on approach with a focus on automating repeatable tasks for efficiency
• Preferred qualifications include coding experience (preferably Python), knowledge of sensors, CAD design experience (CATIA, SOLIDWORKS, Autodesk Inventor), and interest in electric vehicles or sustainable energy

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly pay range: $20.00 - $50.00 plus benefits
• Aetna PPO and HSA medical plans with $0 payroll deduction options
• Family-building, fertility, adoption, and surrogacy benefits
• Dental and vision plans, including orthodontic coverage, with $0 payroll contribution options
• Company-paid Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions for eligible plans
• 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
• Employee Assistance Program
• Sick and vacation time, paid holidays, and flexible time for salaried positions
• Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
• Voluntary benefits including critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
• Commuter benefits and employee discounts/perks program

Training & Development

The internship program offers growth through close collaboration with managers, mentors, and teams, providing technical, professional, and personal development by engaging in critical projects that contribute to Tesla’s mission.

Career Progression

Interns have the opportunity to extend their internship into the Fall term if available and may transition to full-time roles, supporting career growth within Tesla’s engineering teams.

How to Apply

Applicants must be actively enrolled in an academic program and able to commit to a minimum of 12 weeks full-time on-site, preferably starting May or June 2026. International students should verify CPT work authorization for 40 hours per week before applying. Recent graduates should apply for full-time positions instead of internships.

This job may close before the stated closing date, you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible

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