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.

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