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Tesla Software Engineering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Tesla

AI Safety Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$20 - $26.75/hr

Tesla is seeking a highly motivated AI Safety Operator to join their vehicle FSD team. In this role ... driving an engineering vehicle for data collection and ensuring the vehicle's safety and ...

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Tesla Software Engineering information

See Washington salary details

$71.9K

$167.1K

$232.7K

How much do tesla software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for tesla software engineering in Washington is $167,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,900.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Tesla Software Engineering job?

A Tesla Software Engineering job involves designing, developing, and optimizing software for Tesla's products, including vehicles, energy solutions, and internal systems. Engineers work on cutting-edge technology like autonomous driving, battery management, and AI-driven applications. The role requires proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Java, and experience with software development frameworks. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential to enhance performance, safety, and user experience. Tesla engineers are expected to innovate, solve complex problems, and work in a fast-paced environment to support the company's mission of accelerating sustainable energy.

What is the typical team structure for a Tesla Software Engineering role, and how do engineers collaborate across projects?

Tesla Software Engineers often work in cross-functional teams that include product managers, hardware engineers, and other software specialists. Collaboration is highly valued, with regular meetings and code reviews to ensure integration across different technology domains—such as autonomous driving, manufacturing systems, or in-car infotainment. Engineers are encouraged to take ownership of features from conception to deployment, and may collaborate with teams in other locations to solve complex, real-world problems. This dynamic environment fosters innovation and provides opportunities for learning from experts in both software and hardware engineering. As a result, engineers gain exposure to diverse challenges and are able to significantly impact Tesla’s cutting-edge products.

How much do software engineers at Tesla make?

Software engineers at Tesla typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level. Compensation may also include stock options and bonuses, especially for senior roles or specialized skills like embedded systems or AI development.

Does Tesla hire software engineers?

Yes, Tesla regularly hires software engineers for roles involving vehicle software, energy products, and autonomous driving systems. Candidates typically need strong programming skills in languages like Python or C++, experience with embedded systems, and knowledge of automotive or energy industries.

Is it difficult to get hired at Tesla?

Getting hired as a Tesla Software Engineer can be competitive due to the company's high standards for technical skills, problem-solving ability, and relevant experience. Candidates often undergo multiple interview rounds, including technical assessments and behavioral interviews, and strong knowledge of programming languages like Python or C++ is beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Tesla Software Engineering position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tesla Software Engineer, you need a solid foundation in computer science, programming (often in C++, Python, or Java), and a background in software development methodologies—usually evidenced by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field. Proficiency with development tools like Git, CI/CD pipelines, and experience working with embedded systems, automotive software, or cloud infrastructure is also valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset are crucial soft skills. These capabilities ensure engineers can contribute to high-impact projects in a fast-paced environment, drive innovation, and deliver reliable software for Tesla’s advanced products.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those working at major tech companies like Tesla, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like AI or autonomous systems, and often involves leadership responsibilities or high-impact roles.
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What job categories do people searching Tesla Software Engineering jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Tesla Software Engineering jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Tesla Software Engineering jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Tesla Software Engineering job openings:
Tesla Software Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tesla Software Engineering job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,085 per year, or $80.3 per hour.
Sr. Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Sr. Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Tesla Laboratories, Inc

Washington, DC • On-site

$138K - $182K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

About the Company; Tesla Laboratories is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) providing Cyber Security, Intelligence Analysis, Financial Management, Facilities Engineering Services, and Program Management support to the Intelligence Community (IC), the Department of Defense (DoD), and other federal government customers. We take pride in fostering a culture that values family, professional growth, and long-term career development—setting us apart from other service companies. Job Description;
This role provides hands-on software development, design, and operational support for a legacy web application in an offline environment.
The primary responsibilities include:
Programming with a diverse technology stack—encompassing Java, Groovy, Grails, Python, PL/SQL, JavaScript, CSS, and HTML—and performing data engineering tasks.
These tasks include using Python for data cleaning and implementing ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes to migrate data from text files, PDFs, and spreadsheets into the Oracle database.
Additional duties include writing PL/SQL queries for ad hoc reports and ensuring the operational readiness of the application environment, which uses Apache Tomcat, Oracle, GeoServer, and OpenLayers.
The position requires translating business needs into technical specifications by collaborating with subject matter experts to gather and refine requirements.
This is achieved through an iterative process that includes conducting software demonstrations for feedback, preparing work breakdown structures, and estimating development tasks.
A core function of the assignment is to ensure application integrity and performance.
This involves proactively testing, debugging, and resolving complex technical issues and software deficiencies.
The work also includes interfacing with web services (XML, JSON), security protocols (PKI), and search technologies such as IBM Watson Explorer, IBM Enterprise Name Search, and Elasticsearch. Benefits; Tesla Laboratories offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and long-term success of our employees, including:
Competitive compensation
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan with company contribution
Paid time off and federal holidays
Professional development and training opportunities
Supportive, family-focused company culture
Opportunities for long-term career growth within a growing SDVOSB
Tesla Laboratories logo

About Tesla Laboratories

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tesla Laboratories is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) that provides Cyber Security, Intelligence Analysis, Financial Management and Program Management services to the Intelligence Community (IC), the Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal government customers. ​Tesla has numerous contract vehicles through which customers can obtain our services such as the GSA Professional Services Schedule and the Navy Seaport-e contracts. Plus as a SDVOSB, Tesla is eligible for sole-source set aside contracts which are another option for contacting with Tesla.

Industry

It services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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