Automation & Controls Specialist (Starlink Development)

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.

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS SPECIALIST (STARLINK DEVELOPMENT)

SpaceX is developing a low-latency, broadband internet system to meet the needs of consumers across the globe. Enabled by a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites, Starlink will provide fast, reliable internet to populations with little or no connectivity, including those in rural communities and places where existing services are too expensive or unreliable. The Automation & Controls team is responsible for designing, building, installing, and commissioning new automation assets, which are key in enabling production. The Automation & Controls Specialists are responsible for the hands-on integration, commissioning, and design iteration process alongside engineering to deliver safe, innovative, and reliable solutions for the Starlink program.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Integrate and commission electromechanical production systems using a wide array of tools, machines, and equipment, and collaborate with engineering to deliver solutions

Develop, build, and execute new automation solutions for our production lines and work to improve existing automated assets to meet production requirements

Read, understand, utilize, and redline system-level schematics (mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic)

Build industrial control panels to NFPA 79 & UL 508A standards

Design, implement, and commission PLC and HMI software applications

Spec and procure required components, sensors, and hardware needed for implementing control solutions

Maintain and support the operation of the automation lab by enforcing proper workflow, safety, tidiness, and inventory control of consumables and equipment

Perform and promote 5S principles of organizing and sustaining an efficient and presentable team work space

Work creatively and innovate to support team goals by always being prepared to challenge the status quo and develop unique solutions

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

2+ years of automation experience in a manufacturing and production environment

2+ years of experience working with mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic systems

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Demonstrated hands-on skill in fault finding and mechanical system troubleshooting

Creative, detail oriented, and highly organized with exceptional communication skills

Strong, working knowledge of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety), NFPA 79, and UL508A codes

PLC & HMI programming experience or familiarization using ladder logic and structured text (Beckoff Twincat, Siemens TIA, and Allen-Bradley RSLogix)

Experience with electrical and pneumatic schematics for automated equipment using EPLAN Electrical/Fluid and Visio software suites or equivalent

Experience with electrical control panel design, building, and wiring

Excellent skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Skilled in gathering and analyzing information to understand complex problems

Ability to maintain a safe and clean working environment while adhering to company policies, quality policies, and industry standards

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to acquire forklift certification

Ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted

Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position

Must be willing to work overtime and weekends as required to support critical milestones

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.