Automation & Controls Engineer (Starship Launch Pad)
About the role
AUTOMATION & CONTROLS ENGINEER (STARSHIP LAUNCH PAD)
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design and build the controls infrastructure to support the various types of ground support equipment required to test and launch the Starship Launch Vehicle.
- Maintain the operational capability of all control voltage levels (<60V) electrical systems once activated.
- Develop and upgrade data acquisition and control systems across Launch infrastructure.
- Create new automation systems as needed to support the evolving needs of the launch and test infrastructure.
- Provide technical support and guidance for controls technicians and other non-controls engineering groups.
- Develop new hardware and processes to improve capabilities, reduce cost, and setup time of electrical systems.
- Analyze data to assess the function and health of electrical systems.
- Assist in the design and analysis of experiments to evaluate test articles.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in physics, electrical engineering or computer engineering or technical discipline.
- 1+ year experience in the design and commissioning of automation and controls systems for industrial applications.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
- Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot data acquisition and control hardware.
- Fundamental understanding of engineering principles behind electronic equipment, instrumentation, and commonly used industrial equipment.
- Experience designing and installing instrumentation and control systems in hazardous areas (NFPA 70 Section 500 installations); class 1, division 1 and division 2 environments or IEC equivalence.
- Familiarity with mixed signal electronics, power supply design, analog filtering; testing and troubleshooting techniques, signal integrity, layout and grounding principles.
- General schematic capture and printed circuit board (PCB) design and/or verification and validation experience.
- Experience with electrical power distribution, working knowledge of NFPA 70 and NFPA 70E.
- First-hand experience with programming and software development.
- Experience with industrial bus protocols such as Modbus, Profinet and EtherNet/IP.
- Hands-on experience activating, building, and troubleshooting analog & digital electronic systems, including avionics.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and drive to succeed as part of a high-functioning team.
- Ability to thrive in ambiguity, independently drive project progress, and manage multiple priorities.
- Knowledge of high-reliability processes and related documentation practices.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral.
- Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings.
- Ability to perform physical tasks such as climbing up and down stairs and/or ladders regularly throughout the day.
- Lift/Carry: Up to 25lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and drive to succeed as part of a high-functioning team.
- Ability to thrive in ambiguity, independently drive project progress, and manage multiple priorities.
- Knowledge of high-reliability processes and related documentation practices.
- Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, flashing lights, heat, cold, rain, and noise.
- Ability to travel to other SpaceX or 3rd party facilities (up to 25%).
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 .
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