New

Simulation Program Manager, Optimus

Tesla Motors, Inc.
96,800 - 217,200 USD
paid holidays, flex time, 401(k)
United States, California, Palo Alto
Jan 15, 2026
What to Expect Tesla is at the forefront of AI, robotics, and autonomous systems, revolutionizing industries through cutting-edge technology. Our simulation programs are critical for developing and validating AI models, robotics behaviors, and autonomous driving systems in virtual environments. We're looking for a skilled Program Manager to orchestrate our simulation efforts, ensuring seamless integration of high-fidelity tools that accelerate innovation. As the Simulation Program Manager, you will drive the strategic roadmap for Tesla's simulation initiatives, facilitate cross-team collaboration for developing advanced simulation tools and models, and act as a key liaison between Physics Engine Development Team and AI/AI Simulation teams. This role requires a blend of technical insight, project management expertise, and coordination skills to align simulation capabilities with broader engineering goals, ultimately supporting products like Optimus Robots and Autopilot. What You'll Do Develop and maintain the simulation roadmap, including prioritizing features, timelines, and resource allocation to align with Tesla's AI and robotics objectives Assist engineering teams with broader coordination for the development of high-fidelity simulation tools and models, ensuring integration of realistic physics, environmental factors, and AI behaviors Coordinate requests and asks from the AI and AI Simulation teams to the physics engine development team, facilitating efficient communication, requirement gathering, and resolution of dependencies Lead cross-functional collaboration across AI, software, hardware, and validation teams to identify gaps in simulation capabilities and drive iterative improvements Track program milestones, manage risks, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as simulation accuracy, computational efficiency, and model fidelity Conduct needs assessments and stakeholder workshops to refine simulation requirements, incorporating feedback from end-users in robotics and autonomous systems Explore emerging technologies in simulation (e.g., real-time rendering, machine learning-based modeling) to enhance roadmap innovation and scalability What You'll Bring Degree in Computer Science or a related field, or equivalent experience 5+ years of experience in program management, ideally in simulation, AI, gaming, or high-tech R&D environments Strong understanding of simulation technologies, including physics engines (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine, or custom solutions), high-fidelity modeling, and AI integration Proven ability to build and execute technical roadmaps, with experience in agile methodologies and tools like Jira, Confluence, or Asana Excellent communication and facilitation skills for bridging technical teams, including handling complex requests and resolving inter-team dependencies Familiarity with AI simulation challenges, such as data-driven modeling, edge-case testing, and scalability in cloud or distributed environments Ability to work in a dynamic, high-stakes setting with frequent pivots and tight deadlines Compensation and Benefits 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 $96,800 - $217,200/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.