Hardware Test Automation Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

HARDWARE TEST AUTOMATION ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK)

At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation with over 8,500 in-orbit and is providing fast, reliable internet to 7M+ users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system - thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We've only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink's potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

SpaceX is looking for an Test Automation Engineer to design, build, and automate test systems to support the development and qualification of the propulsion systems, satellite payloads and avionics boards, mechanisms, and more. This role encompasses design, analysis, and manufacturing disciplines, with the ability to spearhead large-scope projects from early design trades through implementation. You will be expected to define new processes, drive system requirements, manage large-scope projects across multiple disciplines, and activate systems that meet or exceed the aesthetics of the factory of the future.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop, document, and implement cross-functional automation solutions to improve test capability, coverage, and safety
• Design and implement test and ground support equipment to include flight hardware interfacing fixtures, automated test equipment, facilities infrastructure, vacuum systems, etc.
• Directly involved with equipment builds, checkouts, and troubleshooting
• Design user interfaces that make complex machines easy to use and troubleshoot
• Architect, write, and debug PLC code
• Create electrical, pneumatic and fluid schematics
• Control and maintain network infrastructure interfaces to data acquisition and control systems
• Use electrical equipment in the field to verify the functionality of end instruments
• Provide innovative solutions to special requirements and challenges faced by the team, which can range from specialized equipment to challenging installation locations
• Perform electrical installation of valves, limit switches, potentiometers, ducers, etc.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience automating test systems
• 1+ years of experience with instrumentation, data acquisition system design, or electronics test engineering

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 1+ years of programming experience using Python, MATLAB, or C/C++
• Experience with one or more of the following electrical test equipment: oscilloscopes, DMMs, DAQs, power supply, electronic load, spectrum analyzer, source measurement unit
• Experience with programmable logic controllers (PLC)
• Experience in one or more of the following: electronics test rack design and build, data acquisition setup and field measurements, build of electronics systems or test systems for local assembly or industrial applications
• Extensive knowledge with a range of digital and analog interfaces including: USB, VISA, TCP/IP, CAN bus, SPI, I2C, Modbus, analog-to-digital conversion
• Experience troubleshooting interactions between software and hardware
• Experience with the design, build, and activation of fluids, thermal, vacuum, structural or electromechanical systems
• Understanding of metrology, sources of measurement error, and uncertainty analysis
• Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills, and engineering fundamentals
• Able to collaborate with a wide range of people and effectively work in a team
• Sound verbal and written communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willing to work weekends and extended hours as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Automation and Controls Engineer/Level I: $100,000.00 - $120,000.00/per year
Automation and Controls Engineer/Level II: $115,000.00 - $130,000.00/per year

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to