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SpaceX · 1 week ago

Manager, Equipment and Automation Engineering (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level

5+ years exp

SpaceX is a company focused on enabling human life on Mars through advanced technology. They are seeking a Manager of Equipment and Automation Engineering to lead a team in designing and implementing automation systems for solar cell production, ensuring safety and quality standards are met while driving innovation.

Advanced MaterialsAerospaceManufacturingNational SecuritySpace Travel

Growth Opportunities

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Lead a team of multi-disciplinary engineers spanning the design, procurement, installation, and optimization of solar cell manufacturing equipment and automation

Collaborate with production, process engineering, and supply chain teams to identify equipment needs and develop solutions that improve yield, reduce cycle times, and minimize downtime in satellite manufacturing lines

Oversee the full lifecycle of equipment projects, from concept through commissioning, including budgeting, vendor management, and root-cause analysis for failures

Implement data-driven improvements using tools like PLC programming, SCADA systems, and IoT sensors to enable predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring

Ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., ISO, SEMI) and SpaceX safety protocols, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing

Mentor and develop team members, conduct performance reviews, and hire top talent to build a high-performing engineering group

Travel as needed (up to 20%) internationally

Qualification

Equipment engineeringAutomation systemsProject leadershipHigh-volume manufacturingRoboticsProgramming for automationCAD softwarePassion for space explorationCommunication

Required

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline

5+ years of experience in equipment engineering or automation, with at least 2+ years in a project leadership or management role

Experience with automation projects in a high-volume manufacturing environment (e.g., semiconductors, automotive, or aerospace)

Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

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

Preferred

Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant engineering discipline

Experience in the aerospace or satellite manufacturing industry

Experience with the equipment and support systems used to manufacture solar cells

Strong knowledge of automation technologies, including robotics (e.g., FANUC, ABB), motion control systems, and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD)

Experience with equipment qualification, validation, and troubleshooting in cleanroom or controlled environments

Proficiency in programming for automation (e.g., Structured Text, Ladder Logic, C++) and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW)

Demonstrated ability to manage budgets exceeding $10M and leading multidisciplinary teams in agile development cycles

Excellent communication skills, with experience presenting technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders

Passion for space exploration and alignment with SpaceX's mission to make life multi-planetary