System Validation Engineer, AI Computer System at Tesla · Palo Alto

Join Tesla’s AI Computer Engineering team to validate our next-generation computing platforms that power Autopilot, Optimus, and Data Center. You will own validation for a program end-to-end and work across silicon, EE, and firmware teams, from planning and infrastructure to execution and debug, ensuring our computers meet the highest standards of performance, reliability, and functional correctness. Lead system bring-up, debug complex system-level issues, and perform root-cause analysis on hardware bugs. Support BIOS, Bootloader, and low-level firmware development during new product introduction Develop comprehensive validation plans, tools, and automation frameworks (Python/Bash) to execute system-level regression suites for Tesla’s custom SoCs and platform designs Develop validation content, including diagnostics, stress kernels, and directed tests, and run it against simulation, emulation, and early silicon so coverage is ready before bring-up and reusable for wafer and SLT screening Continuously analyze and enhance firmware/software robustness for Functional Verification Testing (FVT). Interface with kernel drivers and device tree configurations to ensure hardware stability Failure Analysis: Conduct board-level failure analysis on contract manufacturer and field return units to improve first-pass yields and reduce escape rates Instrument and analyze system behavior using logic analyzers, protocol analyzers, oscilloscopes, and JTAG/debug tools Participate in silicon and system hardware design and reviews to influence validation strategy early in the design cycle Set validation strategy across a program, mentor engineers on silicon-to-system debug, and raise the team’s depth in low-level hardware and software integration Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field with 10+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent practical experience Strong proficiency in C and Python scripting for automation Hands-on experience with Linux OS internals, kernel modules, and shell scripting Proven experience in SoC/board bring-up, boot firmware, and debugging embedded targets Experience validating pre-silicon designs on simulation or emulation platforms, and correlating that coverage to post-silicon results Familiarity with standard communication protocols (e.g., SPI, I2C, CAN, UART) as well as high-speed interfaces (PCIe, DDR/HBM) Experience with JTAG and debug tooling; familiarity with lab equipment such as logic analyzers and oscilloscopes Ability to read and interpret electronic circuit schematics; hands-on board-level fault isolation is a plus Benefits 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 Expected Compensation $140,000 - $396,000/annual salary + cash and stock awards + benefits Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.