Tesla’s Hiring Process: How to Land a Job at Elon Musk’s Company
Tesla has recently started hiring again after a period of mass layoffs which is considered a normal cycle at the company. According to a former manager at Tesla, the company goes through cycles of trimming down and then later bringing in new people. Despite the layoffs, Tesla has posted nearly 800 open roles on its careers page in the past few weeks, indicating that they are actively seeking new talent.
A job at Tesla is highly coveted, and the company received over 5.9 million applications in 2023. However, landing a job at Elon Musk’s most well-known venture is not easy. Business Insider spoke with 10 current Tesla engineers who shared their insights on what it takes to work at the company.
Tesla’s hiring process for engineers can be quite extensive, involving up to nine interviews, a series of tests, and in some cases, a letter to Elon Musk himself. It typically takes up to six months from start to finish to receive an offer letter. This lengthy process showcases Tesla’s commitment to hiring the best candidates who possess the necessary skills and can align with the company’s culture.
The initial step in Tesla’s hiring process is relatively standard. After a successful application, candidates are usually interviewed by a recruiter or a human-resources employee. It is worth noting that knowing someone within the company can be advantageous in securing an interview at Tesla. Recruiters often sift through thousands of applications and only interview a small number of applicants, typically around 20.
For candidates who progress further in the hiring process, they can expect separate interviews with a manager and at least one engineer from their prospective team. These interviews are more technical and may include a take-home or live test. Tesla takes a no-nonsense approach and expects candidates to own up if they don’t know something, as they will ask follow-up questions.
Panel interviews are another crucial step in Tesla’s hiring process. These interviews can last up to six hours and involve a presentation followed by rapid-fire interviews with multiple engineers. During the presentation, candidates are expected to discuss a previous project in detail and answer questions about it. It is essential to ensure that the project shared is not confidential, as this would raise red flags for the panelists.
Preparing for the presentation can be time-consuming, with some engineers spending over 40 hours over several weeks to ensure they are fully prepared. The panel interview is an opportunity for panelists to assess the candidate’s technical knowledge and gauge their fit within the company culture. After the panel interview, the panelists submit their scores in a blind vote. Candidates who receive high scores are more likely to be viewed as potential hires.
Depending on the role, some applicants may be offered the job after the panel interview. For higher-level positions, candidates may need to interview with director or VP-level employees. In some cases, applicants are required to fill out a form outlining why they would be a good fit for Tesla, which may be sent to upper-level management or even Elon Musk himself. Musk has previously stated that he must approve all new hires.
Overall, the entire hiring process at Tesla can take anywhere from one to six months. It is considered to be one of the most intensive application processes in the industry. Tesla is looking for candidates who are willing to wait and are passionate about working for the company, even if they may get a higher base pay elsewhere. The opportunity to cash in on Tesla stock is an enticing incentive for those who are committed to the company’s mission.
In conclusion, landing a job at Tesla requires perseverance, technical expertise, and a genuine passion for the company’s mission. Tesla’s extensive hiring process ensures that they select only the most qualified candidates who align with their culture and values. Despite the challenges, working at Tesla offers a unique opportunity to be part of one of the most innovative companies in the world.
