Robotics R&D Machinist, Grinding Specialist, Optimus – Tesla, Langley, BC
Location: Langley, BC | Company: Tesla
Tesla is hiring a full-time Robotics R&D Machinist specializing in precision grinding for the Optimus program in Langley, British Columbia. The position supports advanced robotics development by producing complex, tight-tolerance components using CNC and manual grinding equipment.
This role may suit an experienced machinist who can manage the complete manufacturing process, from reviewing engineering drawings and programming equipment to selecting tooling, setting up machines, inspecting finished parts, and making adjustments based on measurement data.
About the Robotics R&D Machinist Role
The Grinding Specialist will work with engineers, machinists, technicians, and manufacturing specialists in Tesla’s research and development environment. The team produces precision components used in emerging robotics technologies, where manufacturing requirements and project priorities may change as designs develop.
The position requires practical machining expertise, technical judgment, and the ability to solve production challenges independently. Candidates should be comfortable working with advanced machine tools, interpreting detailed drawings, and producing parts measured to tolerances expressed in microns.
Key Areas of Responsibility
The position covers CNC and manual grinding, process development, equipment programming, part inspection, machine maintenance, and continuous improvement within the R&D workspace.
Grinding Machine Operation
Set up and operate CNC and manual grinding machines to produce precise components that meet engineering drawings and dimensional requirements.
End-to-End Machining
Manage the production process from drawing review and programming through tooling selection, machine setup, inspection, adjustment, and part completion.
Process Development
Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to create reliable machining processes for complex components used in robotics research and development.
Machine Programming
Program components using conversational programming methods and adjust machine parameters according to production and inspection results.
Equipment Maintenance
Maintain grinding machines, tooling, and related equipment to support consistent performance, accuracy, and availability within the workshop.
Safety and 5S Practices
Follow safety requirements and apply 5S principles to keep the laboratory organized, efficient, standardized, and prepared for changing production needs.
Experience and Technical Qualifications
Tesla prefers candidates with Red Seal certification or equivalent practical machining experience. Applicants should have experience with abrasive CNC and manual grinding processes and be comfortable producing components with tight metric tolerances measured in microns.
Experience with precision gear or thread machining is considered an asset. Candidates should also understand geometric dimensioning and tolerancing according to ASME Y14.5 and be able to use measurement data, including coordinate measuring machine results, to make accurate process and machine adjustments.
Skills That May Help Candidates Succeed
The role requires advanced machining ability alongside careful planning, technical communication, equipment knowledge, and the flexibility to respond to changing engineering priorities.
Experience with CNC and manual abrasive grinding is central to producing complex components with demanding surface and dimensional requirements.
A strong understanding of ASME Y14.5 helps machinists interpret datums, tolerances, geometric controls, and other technical drawing requirements.
The ability to manage programming, tooling, setup, measurement, adjustment, and final part completion supports efficient end-to-end production.
Clear written and verbal communication helps machinists coordinate effectively with engineers, technicians, quality specialists, and other production partners.
Strong organizational skills and flexibility are important when schedules, designs, machining requirements, and project priorities change.
Work Environment, Compensation and Benefits
This is a full-time position based in Langley within Tesla’s robotics research and development operations. The machinist will use precision equipment and work closely with cross-functional teams producing components for advanced engineering projects, including the Optimus robotics program.
Tesla lists expected compensation of $21.84 to $44.10 CAD per hour, along with potential cash and stock awards. Eligible full-time employees may also receive company-paid health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, an RRSP with employer matching, an employee stock purchase plan, paid time off, paid holidays, employee assistance resources, parental programs, and additional discounts and benefits.
How to Apply
Candidates should review the complete position description on Tesla’s official careers website before applying. Application materials should clearly describe relevant experience with CNC and manual grinding, tight-tolerance machining, equipment programming, GD&T, inspection methods, machine maintenance, and manufacturing process development.
Tesla accepts applications through its online careers portal. Applicants who require an accommodation during the recruitment process may communicate their accessibility needs to the employer or recruiter.