Staff Mechanical Design Engineer – Tesla – Richmond Hill, ON
Tesla’s Toronto Automation team in Richmond Hill, Ontario is looking for a Staff Mechanical Design Engineer to help shape the machinery that powers some of the world’s most ambitious manufacturing operations. From Optimus robotics to cell manufacturing, energy systems, and vehicle production, this role sits at the intersection of engineering fundamentals and real-world, factory-floor impact.
This is a hands-on, fast-paced engineering position where you’ll lead conceptual development of cutting-edge automation equipment, translate ideas from proof of concept through to full-scale production, and collaborate with cross-functional teams across Design, Process, Manufacturing, Quality, Production, and Controls. If you’re driven, self-motivated, and energized by Tesla’s mission, this is the kind of role where your work will be felt globally.
About the Role: Staff Mechanical Design Engineer
As a Staff Mechanical Design Engineer, you’ll take the lead on equipment development projects — balancing product specifications, process requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead times. You’ll create detailed 3D CAD models and GD&T drawings, prepare motion studies, run FEA analyses, and oversee the integration of commercial components including sensors, servos, and pneumatic actuators. Your work feeds directly into Tesla’s global manufacturing ecosystem.
Collaboration is central to this role. You’ll serve as the design representative on the ground, working alongside factory-based colleagues and supporting fabrication, assembly, and project management teams when design issues arise. The role also requires a willingness to travel domestically and internationally to support equipment deployment and collaboration with global teams.
Benefits and Salary
Tesla offers a competitive annual salary range of $114,400 – $164,400 for the Staff Mechanical Design Engineer level, plus cash and stock awards. As a full-time employee, you’re eligible from day one for company-paid Health, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability insurance, an RRSP with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, an Employee Assistance Program, Parental Success Programs, paid sick and vacation time, paid holidays, the Tesla Babies program, and access to Tesla product discounts, fitness perks, and more.
Job Details
📌 Job Type: Full-Time
🏢 Company: Tesla
📍 Location: Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
🆔 Requisition ID: 250335
🗓️ Date Posted: May 28, 2026
💰 Pay: $114,400 – $164,400/year + cash and stock awards
Responsibilities
In this role, you’ll be at the forefront of advanced automation equipment design, driving projects from early-stage concepts all the way through to full production deployment. Your engineering decisions will directly affect the performance, reliability, and intelligence of the machinery used across Tesla’s global operations.
- Lead conceptual equipment development while carefully balancing product specifications, process requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead-time constraints
- Contribute to the realization of new and innovative manufacturing processes from proof of concept through to full-scale production
- Drive improvement of equipment effectiveness, manufacturing tolerance, stability, automation, and overall intelligence
- Create 3D CAD models, detailed drawings with GD&T, mechanical BOMs, and safety and maintenance documentation
- Prepare motion studies for complex designs and conduct FEA studies, applying strong knowledge of dynamics, force and stress analysis, and solid mechanics
- Select and integrate commercial components including sensors, servos, pneumatic actuators, and related systems
- Review and provide feedback on design performance, simplicity, robustness, assembly, and installation approaches
- Support fabrication, assembly, project management, and production teams to troubleshoot design issues and implement enhancements that optimize machine performance
Requirements / Skills
Tesla is looking for a detail-oriented, analytically strong engineer who thrives in high-responsibility environments and takes real pride in hands-on problem solving. The ideal candidate brings deep mechanical engineering fundamentals and a track record of delivering results in fast-paced manufacturing or automation settings.
- 5+ years of experience as a hands-on mechanical, manufacturing, or design engineer working on mechanical and/or electromechanical systems
- Proficiency in SolidWorks, PDM, AutoCAD, and/or similar CAD/CAE software
- Strong command of GD&T and drafting standards such as ASME Y14.5
- Experience designing fixtures, tooling, and mechanical equipment in both 2D and 3D CAD
- Knowledge of fabrication techniques including CNC/manual machining, welding, sheet metal forming, 3D printing, and various assembly methods
- Familiarity with automated equipment systems including robotics, vision systems, conveyors, material handling, and PLC-based controls
- Experience with production documentation including SOPs, process flow diagrams, checklists, and startup documentation
- Prior experience in high-volume manufacturing or new equipment installation is a valued asset
How to Apply
To apply, visit the official Tesla job posting using the link below. Make sure your resume is up to date and reflects your hands-on engineering experience before submitting.
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Job Summary & Tips for Applying
Quick Summary & What to Highlight: This Staff Mechanical Design Engineer role at Tesla in Richmond Hill is perfect for candidates who excel in mechanical equipment design, CAD modelling, and automation systems integration. On your resume, emphasize any experience with SolidWorks, GD&T, and electromechanical systems, your attention to manufacturing detail, and your ability to drive projects in a fast-paced engineering environment. If you’ve previously worked in high-volume manufacturing, robotics, or factory automation, make sure to highlight specific achievements and responsibilities that align with this position.
Resume & Application Tips: Before applying, tailor your resume to match the job description. Include keywords like SolidWorks, GD&T, and automation equipment design that appear in the posting. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., “reduced machine downtime by 20% through design improvements” or “delivered 5+ equipment installations from concept to production”). Write a brief cover letter expressing your genuine interest in Tesla‘s mission and why you’re excited about this engineering opportunity in Richmond Hill. Double-check your application for spelling errors and ensure your contact information is current.
Interview Preparation: If selected for an interview, research Tesla‘s manufacturing initiatives, Optimus development, and company culture beforehand. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to demonstrate your hands-on problem-solving and design leadership. Common questions may include scenarios about managing tight timelines, troubleshooting design failures, and collaborating across engineering disciplines. Dress appropriately for a technical engineering environment, arrive 10–15 minutes early, and bring copies of your resume. Prepare thoughtful questions about the team’s current projects, design processes, and growth opportunities. After the interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours reiterating your interest in the position.