Launch Engineer, Product Introduction

Launch Engineer, New Product Introduction

Company:
Tesla

Type:
Full‑time

Location:

California

Experience Level: Entry (0‑2 years)

The Launch Engineer, New Product Introduction is responsible for managing the operations perimeter in its entirety as it relates to introducing major coordinated changes or packages into the factory or factories. This requires the launch engineer to lead a cross‑functional team to ensure engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply‑chain validation targets have been met for each change. The Launch Engineer is ultimately responsible for the factory readiness and successful tactical implementation of the program into production.

• Drive all activities related to the operations perimeter for your program(s) into the factory/factories. Clear target is to meet or exceed program milestones as set forth by the company – non‑event launch mentality with each change or program.
• Participate in and lead various “cross‑functional” program and manufacturing readiness forums. Provide clear updates on status and recovery plans as necessary at both working and executive levels.
• Oversee the complete manufacturing validation for the program – drive supply‑chain readiness and handover from launch planning to production planning; organize and oversee factory transition; and follow up on excess/obsolescence planning and post‑program/service introduction activities.
• Plan, organize, and orchestrate all pre‑launch build activities. Facilitate ramp management with operations teams.
• Oversee the finalization and validation of the MBOM for the program.
• Oversee the validation of all factory systems (MRP, ERP, MES, etc.) regarding launch preparation.
• Steer overall program validation plan and manufacturing readiness criteria (KPIs).
• Consider environment, health, and safety in all activities and manufacturing validations.
• Organize and follow up on open points/actions required to secure a non‑event introduction of the program; ensure constraints are conveyed and well communicated as actionable items throughout the organization.
• Interact, integrate, and drive results across cross‑functional teams in engineering, manufacturing, supply‑chain, quality, production, production control, sales, service, etc.

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in automotive, high‑tech, or other high‑volume/high‑complexity manufacturing.
• Background in power‑train / high‑voltage battery engineering or manufacturing experience highly desired.
• Production operations knowledge – firm understanding of how complex production lines operate, including key items such as industrial workings between facilities/departments, line balance, OEE, error proofing, etc.
• Understanding of how the manufacturing validation process runs in relation to complex new products that stretch across various engineering teams and manufacturing centers/factories (methodology, validation plans, associated KPIs).
• Great understanding of design for manufacture, process design, process validation, and assembly methods.
• Strong interpersonal skills dealing with all levels of an organization. Able to effectively and confidently communicate to senior and executive‑level leadership.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and excellent organization skills; well versed with common workplace software (word processor, spreadsheet, database, etc.).
• Creative thinking and excellent problem‑solving skills; adept in various problem‑solving methodologies.
• Ability to read and interpret basic mechanical drawings or CAD models.

• Medical plans – plan options with $0 payroll deduction.
• Family‑building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits.
• Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both with $0 paycheck 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) 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…