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Automation & Controls Engineer, Assembly Manufacturing (Starlink) Verified today

SpaceX · Bastrop, TX · Space Systems · first seen 2026-10-30
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Automation & Controls Engineer, Assembly Manufacturing (Starlink)

SpaceX is deploying Starlink, the world's largest satellite constellation, delivering fast internet to millions globally. You will join the team that designs and operates the factories building thousands of satellites, receivers, and the software that ties it all together.

As a member of this team you will lead creative, multi-disciplinary projects spanning machine design, robotics, motion systems, and factory health monitoring that form the innovative, high-rate factories enabling Starlink's global reach.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and manage automation projects from initial ideation through machine commissioning, proof of rate capability, and handoff to operations
  • Architect, write, and debug PLC code emphasizing organization, structure, documentation, maintainability, and reusability for high-volume manufacturing
  • Implement ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant safety systems for robots, gantries, conveyors, and other manufacturing equipment
  • Design electrical systems compliant to NEC, NFPA, and UL508A regulations
  • Generate simple, intuitive HMI screens for machine operation and troubleshooting
  • Create project schedules and budgets, and lead the team to achieve them

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or computer science
  • 1+ years experience in industrial or factory automation design and implementation, or involvement with a project team designing and building electro-mechanical, robotic, or automated systems beyond classroom work

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Electromechanical systems design
  • Electrical sizing of motors, cables, circuit protection, VFDs, motor starters, and motion systems
  • Design of fail-safe electrical circuits using safety logic controllers and safety-rated relays
  • Troubleshooting industrial electrical systems with multimeters, oscilloscopes, EMI probes
  • Electrical schematics and single-line diagrams (EPLAN preferred)
  • Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text PLC programming
  • Safety PLC programming and machine safety software implementation
  • HMI, SCADA, IoT (MQTT, OPC-UA), Ignition systems with focus on user-friendly navigation and machine health monitoring
  • Field bus networking protocols (EtherCAT, Profinet, Profisafe, Ethernet/IP)
  • Serial, Ethernet, and field bus network communication
  • ABB robotics programming
  • Knowledge of NEC, NFPA, UL508A codes and control system safety standards
  • Design and commissioning of high-quality electrical panels and electro-mechanical systems with safety considerations
  • Interdisciplinary systems integration including sensors, pneumatics, hydraulics, and pre-production safety checkout

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones
  • Willing to travel up to 10%

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.