Refinery Operations Leader, Battery Minerals & Metals

Tesla is building the world's most advanced and sustainable battery materials supply chain. As Refining Operations Leader, you will own end-to-end operations for our state-of-the-art refinery.

• Oversee all shifts and functions of the refining facility, including kiln operations, leaching, purification, crystallization, drying, and product finishing, while meeting aggressive production forecasts and quality specifications
• Execute the ramp from initial production to full nameplate capacit) while continuously improving yield, uptime, and cost per ton
• Champion world-class safety performance (zero incidents goal) and environmental stewardship. Ensure full compliance with all regulatory, permitting, and Tesla standards in a high-temperature, chemical-process environment
• Work closely with Process Engineering, R&D, and Equipment teams to optimize Tesla's innovative alkaline leach and purification processes, eliminate bottlenecks, and reduce energy and reagent consumption
• Build, coach, and develop a high-performing team of operators, shift supervisors, engineers, and technicians. Foster a culture of ownership, rapid problem-solving, and continuous improvement (Tesla Production System)
• Partner with Mining, Logistics, Quality, Manufacturing, Cell Production, and external suppliers to ensure seamless raw material intake and on-spec product delivery to downstream battery factories
• Own key performance indicators including OEE, throughput, yield, cost, safety, and sustainability metrics. Provide clear leadership updates to senior management
• Lead initiatives to minimize waste, repurpose byproducts (e.g., converting residues into construction materials), and further reduce the carbon intensity of refining
• 8+ years of progressive leadership in chemical refining, mineral processing, petrochemicals, metals production, or similar high-volume continuous operations. Direct experience with lithium, nickel, or other battery-critical materials refining is strongly preferred
• Deep understanding of high-temperature kilns, hydrometallurgical processes, crystallization, filtration, and chemical plant operations. Familiarity with statistical process control, Six Sigma, and lean manufacturing principles
• Track record of leading large teams (100+ people) through complex ramps, turnarounds, or greenfield startups in 24/7 industrial environments
• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience
• Mission-driven, hands-on, data-obsessed, and comfortable with high ambiguity and rapid pace. Willing to roll up sleeves on the plant floor while thinking strategically about multi-year scale-up
• Willingness to work extended hours during ramp phases and travel as needed. Relocation support available for the right candidate

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