Principal Materials Engineer

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.

PRINCIPAL MATERIALS ENGINEER

SpaceX is leveraging its 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 and is providing fast, reliable internet to 6M+ 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. As we continue to upgrade and expand the constellation, we are looking for the best-in-class engineers to join the team.

We are seeking a Principal Materials Engineer to join our Bastrop, TX team, where we are advancing materials technologies to support the deployment of Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in semiconductor device physics and device fabrication to drive material and process innovations across solar cell development, panel-level packaging, and printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing. This position requires a hands-on technical leader who can provide thought leadership, collaborate with executives to craft and execute strategies aligned with Starlink's business objectives, budget, and priorities, while orchestrating end-to-end equipment and process development. You will push material and device performance limits to enable high-efficiency, reliable systems for space and terrestrial applications.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the development and optimization of CVD recipes and device fabrication processes to boost solar cell efficiency.
• Own the full lifecycle of specification, validation and process development— including device modeling, characterization of performance metrics, and materials failure analysis.
• Build supply chains for wafers, gases, chemicals, and equipment for solar cell manufacturing. Define incoming acceptance criteria for materials (e.g. silicon wafers, conductive pastes)
• Specify and implement in-process metrology tools for quality control. Design wafer-level test structures to evaluate material/electronic properties. Integrate simulation tools with experimental data to guide and drive targeted improvements via material or process changes.
• Develop and oversee technology roadmaps for electronic materials tailored to Starlink deployment needs, providing innovation and R&D oversight to evaluate and integrate emerging technologies for competitive advantage.
• Drive end-to-end material and process R&D programs, from concept through product implementation, to drive cost down, efficiency improvements and reliability in electronic systems.
• Collaborate closely with leadership and stakeholders across all departments—including design, reliability, production, and supply chain—to integrate materials innovations into product roadmaps and ensure accountability for operations and reliability.
• Manage compliance risks related to materials and processes, ensuring safety and environmental compliance with industry standards.
• Mentor and develop engineers, providing technical guidance and project oversight.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in materials science, electrical engineering, or an engineering degree.
• 10+ years of experience in microelectronics device research or manufacturing.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree or PhD in materials science, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in semiconductor device physics with extensive hands-on CVD, PVD and related device fabrication experience; preferred background in photovoltaics.
• Expertise in electrical device testing methods (IV, CV, Hall effect, TLM) and optical device characterization (ellipsometry, UV-VIS-IR spectroscopy, PL, EL, QSSPC).
• Proficiency in microscopy and analytical techniques (SEM/EDS, XRD, AFM, XPS, SIMS, FTIR, DMA, DSC).
• Proven cross-functional leadership skills, with experience aligning diverse teams to achieve shared technology goals.
• Strong communication skills for presenting to stakeholders and executives, as well as guiding and mentoring junior engineers.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 25% time.
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise.
• Comfort occasionally working in tight or confined spaces.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 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 EEOCompliance@spacex.com.