(Senior) Robotics Engineer, Body (m/w/d) - Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg

What To Expect

Gigafactory Berlin forms the perfect basis for rolling out Tesla's incredible success story in Europe. The most important pillar for this are our employees. Their passion, motivation and engagement ensure that we achieve our goals. We are looking for you to continue and expand this success story together.

The Role

Tesla is seeking a Senior Robotics Engineer to be part of a world‑class team of engineers that are responsible for designing and building the robotic equipment at the Tesla factories. As a Senior Robotics Engineer, you are responsible for any robotics equipment solutions for all automotive projects. This includes having extensive theoretical and hands‑on experience in all facets of robotic applications used in Manufacturing, as well as experience managing new product introductions, equipment projects (new installations) and process optimization, upgrades & modifications.

The key objective of the Automation team is developing new and innovative solutions in the factory and help Tesla achieve its ambitious manufacturing goals. All of these automated manufacturing processes will be planned, assembled and tested at our Tesla facilities located in Berlin, Germany.

What You'll Do

• Lead the evaluation, specification, and selection of robotic systems (e.g., collaborative robots, articulated arms, SCARA, gantry systems) based on application requirements, throughput, safety, and lifecycle cost.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (design, production, maintenance) to ensure robotic solutions align with product and process needs.
• Develop and maintain complex robot applications using advanced programming languages and environments, including:
  • KRL (KUKA Robot Language)
  • Karel (for Fanuc robots)
  • DCS (Distributed Control System) integration
  • KUKA Safe (safety programming and monitoring)
• Create custom robot code to interface with vision systems, PLCs, conveyors, machine tools, and new technologies (e.g., AI‑based vision, force sensing, Mechmind vision systems).
• Continuously analyze and optimize robotic cell performance (cycle time, uptime, precision, energy efficiency).
• Implement data‑driven improvements using motion profiling, path optimization, and real‑time monitoring.
• Lead root cause analysis (RCA) for chronic robotic failures, software glitches, and mechanical breakdowns.
• Partner with maintenance teams to resolve complex issues and implement preventive measures, reducing downtime and improving MTBF.
• Test and validate new robot software, firmware updates, and emerging robotic technologies (e.g., cobots, AI‑driven motion control, cloud‑based robotics).
• Pilot and scale innovative automation solutions to drive operational efficiency and future readiness.
• Lead end‑to‑end execution of internal robotics projects and major contractor‑led automation initiatives (e.g., new line installations, robotic cell upgrades).
• Manage scope, timelines, budgets, risk, and stakeholder communication across engineering, procurement, and production.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including:
  • Robot program architecture
  • Safety interlock diagrams
  • Change logs and version control
  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Commissioning and validation reports
• Ensure compliance with ISO 10218, ISO 13849, and other relevant safety and quality standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians in robotics programming, safety practices, and system troubleshooting.
• Serve as a technical advisor to production, maintenance, and engineering teams.

What You'll Bring

• Excellent robotic high level and background programming skills on KUKA, Fanuc and ABB
• Hands‑on experience commissioning and programming industrial robots
• Robotic mechanical and electrical trouble‑shooting skills
• Experience with robot simulation packages as well as off‑line programming using Robcad, KUKA.Sim, Process Simulate and Delmia 3DX
• Knowledge on programming languages such as Python, Java, C, C++, HTML, ROS
• Experience on robotics applications such as Spot Weld, Stud Weld, Adhesive, Self‑Piercing Rivet, Vision, Arc Weld, Roll hemming
• Very good written and spoken German and English skills
• Multi‑tasking ability to manage multiple projects at the same time
• Able to work under pressure in the presence of stakeholders
• Willing to work nights and weekends when determined by project needs
• Degree as Bachelor / Master / Dipl.-Ing. (TH / FH) specializing in Electrical, Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Science or the equivalent in experience and evidence of exceptional ability
• At least 5 years extensive experience in robotic programming and application

Nice To Have

• Experience with multiple robot brands
• Virtual commissioning experience of a robotics system
• Exposure to a wide variety of production machinery, industrial sensors, and equipment (LVDT and pressure transducers, dispense systems, temperature controllers, DC nutrunner torque controllers, current and power meters, etc.)
• Exposure to programming Industrial PC, PLC and motor controllers
• Experience with Vision systems (Cognex, Keyence, Fanuc)
• Process knowledge in the field of automotive
• Proficient in CAD (CATIA)

Candidates are expected to uphold and actively promote sustainability principles in their daily work, operating in line with Tesla Global Environmental, Health, Safety & Security (EHS&S) Policy and EMAS requirements, fostering a culture of continuous environmental improvement.