Chemical Engineer, PCB (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.

CHEMICAL ENGINEER, PCB (STARLINK)

Starlink believes in providing fast, reliable internet to those that need it most. We design, build, and launch the world's largest and most advanced satellite constellation that is capable of delivering high-speed internet to even the most remote locations. And while our hardware and network are incredibly advanced, we keep the end-user experience impressively simple - our customers have internet within 10 minutes of unboxing.

As a Chemical Engineer on Starlink, you will spearhead state of the art production processes for our printed circuit boards (PCBs). You will design and implement environmentally friendly chemical recycling strategies, develop highly capable processes for use in mass production, and become a multi-disciplinary expert in PCB fabrication. Your work will form the backbone for millions of next generation consumer facing devices that we ship directly to customers and businesses all over the world. From private homes, RVs, planes, or boats, this team plays an instrumental role in leveling the playing field for high-speed connectivity. You will own various PCB production processes, from initial machine design to running hands-on process DOEs, and will interact regularly with senior leadership during critical design phases. By the end of this year, the Starlink factory in Bastrop will be the largest PCB manufacturing facility, by volume, in North America.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining new and/or improved manufacturing processes, equipment, technologies, and facilities. Examples could include metal plating lines, copper etching lines, direct or electroless metallization lines, water and chemical waste treatment, plasma etching systems, etc.

Analyze production processes and machinery from a first principles, physics-based approach

Develop experiments to diagnose and correct manufacturing problems, utilizing robust DOE and statistical methodologies

Perform defect characterization and analysis to determine root cause and develop action plans to improve yields

Develop project plans, budgets, and cost/benefit analysis for implementation of new processes or machines

Own and perform machine activation and testing with a small team of engineers and technicians

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline

1+ years of experience in chemical engineering design, analysis, and/or system implementation (internship and extracurricular experience is applicable)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, environmental, or related technical discipline

Hands-on experience working with complex fluid or mechanical based production systems in a professional setting

Experience transitioning products from design to manufacturing and scaling to high volume as part of a cross-functional team

Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills

Experience with PCB manufacturing processes like metal plating lines, copper etching lines, direct or electroless metallization lines, water and chemical waste treatment, plasma etching systems, etc.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to travel frequently for work, potentially for extended periods of time during machine buyoffs and startup

Ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted

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

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.