Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Affiliations
Timeline
Generic
Clemente Espitia

Clemente Espitia

Modesto,California

Summary

Experienced Pilot Engineering Technician II with over 8 years in the electric automotive industry, including 2+ years leading pilot engineering projects at Tesla. Proven supervisor and team leader with a strong history of managing complex vehicle launches, prototype builds, and cross-functional teams. Adept at driving operational excellence through process optimization, cross-functional collaboration, and rigorous quality control. Skilled in using data analytics tools to enhance production efficiency and resolve complex issues. Known for strong communication, accountability, and problem-solving abilities in high-pressure, fast-paced environments. Committed to delivering impactful results by streamlining operations, strengthening team performance, and applying hands-on technical expertise.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience

Work History

Pilot Engineering Technician 2

Tesla
Fremont, California
05.2023 - Current
  • Led the successful launch of Tesla’s NV35 and NV36 (Model 3/Y refresh) programs across all variants, including Base, Taiwan, Canada, and Performance.
  • Collaborated with Manufacturing, Design Engineering, and cross-functional teams to develop and qualify new processes, ensuring seamless integration of work instructions, tools, equipment, and materials.
  • Coordinated five months of high-security offsite Release Candidate builds, managing cross-functional workflows and sensitive operations.
  • Supervised daily line operations with outputs exceeding 400 vehicles per shift.
  • Trained and mentored over 200 associates and 25 leads, building a strong, adaptable team culture focused on high performance.
  • Created and maintained Standard Work Instructions (SWIs) using video walkthroughs and visual aids in PowerPoint.
  • Developed and maintained Manufacturing Readiness Trackers (MRTs) in Excel and JIRA to monitor build status and escalate issues.
  • Evaluated product and design changes for assembly impact; developed and implemented process plans for trials and launches in alignment with production goals.
  • Validated BOM/MBOM structures and design updates in partnership with engineering teams to resolve discrepancies and optimize build quality.
  • Utilized CAD and CATIA to support fixture development, tool refinement, and build accuracy.
  • Prepared documentation for change controls and qualification protocols to support process changes effectively.
  • Facilitated timely cross-departmental communication to meet trial and launch timelines.
  • Applied the 4M methodology (Man, Method, Machine, Material) and practiced the SPQRC approach (Safety, People, Quality, Rate, Cost) daily to drive standardized work, effective problem-solving, and continuous improvement across all processes. These methods were used to foster strong team alignment, maintain a healthy work environment, and promote high work ethic across all teams led during every build phase.

Production Associate IV

Tesla
Fremont, California
10.2017 - 05.2023
  • Acted as team lead in Pre-Trim, Door Line, and Post-Marriage; led shift handovers, coordinated daily priorities, and resolved real-time production issues to maintain line flow and uphold quality standards.
  • Led recovery efforts at high-complexity stations across all three areas—troubleshooting issues, stabilizing high-impact stations, and stepping into bottleneck zones to minimize downtime and maintain throughput during critical build phases.
  • Served as a certified trainer, consistently accelerating ramp-up time for new hires while fostering a culture of independent problem-solving and accountability.
  • Functioned as both Defect Tracker and 5S Tracker, ensuring a clean, organized, and efficient work environment aligned with Tesla's operational standards.
  • Operated HMI systems, cleared production alerts, and supported cross-line operations, including GA4 and the Marriage Line.
  • Routinely selected to rotate every 1.5 years into new production areas after mastering current roles—expanding technical depth and gaining a comprehensive understanding of full vehicle assembly.
  • Achieved performance scores above 4 out of 5 on Tesla’s evaluation system, consistently demonstrating high standards in leadership, reliability, and technical skill.
  • Applied the 4M methodology (Man, Method, Machine, Material) and practiced the SPQRC approach (Safety, People, Quality, Rate, Cost) daily to drive standardized work, effective problem-solving, and continuous improvement across all processes.

Education

High School Diploma -

BRENKWITZ
Hayward, CA
05-2010

Skills

  • Leadership & Team Development: Directed 200 associates and 25 leads across multiple shifts; built high-performing teams through mentorship, coaching, and certified training programs
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication: Delivered shift briefings and drove alignment with engineering, quality, and planning teams to ensure operational clarity and goal execution
  • Data & Technical Tools Proficiency: Skilled in using Garage, Splunk, Toolbox, HMI, and MOS for analytics; built and maintained MRTs in Excel and JIRA; experienced with CAD/CATIA for tooling validation and BOM changes
  • Process Optimization & Efficiency: Led improvements at critical stations such as Wheels on Robot and Elevator; identified root causes of inefficiencies and implemented sustainable solutions
  • Safety & Quality Compliance: Enforced SPQRC principles, PPE usage, and SWIs; upheld safety protocols during sensitive builds, ensuring compliance and team accountability
  • Training & Talent Development: Acted as a certified trainer; onboarded and coached new hires and upcoming leads to achieve independent ownership and productivity
  • Launch & Variant Management: Successfully executed 40 unique vehicle variants across Pre-Trim to Post-Marriage phases; ensured launch readiness and quality standards

Languages

Spanish
Native/ Bilingual
English
Native/ Bilingual

Affiliations

Activities & Interests

  • Active U10 Soccer Coach — Leading and developing youth soccer players, focusing on skill-building, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
  • Former Traveling Semi-Pro Soccer Player — Competed at a high level with commitment to training, competition, and teamwork.
  • Former Member, Hayward Gladiators Rugby Team — Played competitive rugby, demonstrating discipline, resilience, and team collaboration.

Timeline

Pilot Engineering Technician 2

Tesla
05.2023 - Current

Production Associate IV

Tesla
10.2017 - 05.2023

High School Diploma -

BRENKWITZ

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