Artificial Graphite Engineer, Battery Minerals & Metals

What to Expect

Tesla is accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy through innovative battery technology that powers our vehicles, energy storage products, and beyond. Our Battery Cell team is pushing the boundaries of energy density, performance, and cost by vertically integrating every aspect of cell production. As a n Artificial Graphite Engineer specializing in natural and synthetic graphite for anode materials, you will drive the development and optimization of high-performance graphite anodes-the critical component enabling longer range, faster charging, and more affordable batteries.

This hands‑on role demands first‑principles thinking to solve complex materials challenges at scale in a mission‑driven environment.

• Lead the research, development, and qualification of natural and/or artificial (synthetic) graphite materials for lithium‑ion battery anodes
• Optimize graphite properties such as particle morphology, surface area, purity, and coating technologies to enhance energy density, cycle life, and rate capability
• Design and conduct experiments to evaluate graphite performance, including electrochemical testing, material characterization, and degradation analysis
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (cathode, electrolyte, cell design, and manufacturing) to integrate advanced graphite into next‑generation cell architectures
• Analyze data from coin/half cells to full‑scale production to identify improvements, reduce costs, and scale sustainable sourcing and processing
• Troubleshoot material interactions (e.g., with silicon blends, binders, and electrolytes) and drive innovations in graphite recycling and low‑carbon production
• Support pilot‑to‑production transitions, including supplier qualification and process development for terawatt‑hour scale manufacturing

• Degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field or equivalent experience
• 3+ years of experience in battery anode materials, with specific expertise in natural/synthetic graphite processing, characterization, or application in lithium‑ion cells
• Deep knowledge of graphite synthesis (e.g., graphitization, purification), surface modification, and electrochemical performance in battery systems
• Hands‑on experience with materials characterization techniques (SEM, XRD, BET, Raman, etc.) and electrochemical testing (cycling, EIS, dQ/dV)
• Proven ability to optimize material properties for cell‑level improvements in energy density, power, and longevity
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB, JMP) and statistical methods for process control
• Strong problem‑solving skills, bias for action, and passion for sustainable energy breakthroughs in a fast‑paced team

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