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Automation & Controls Engineer, Infrastructure & Utility (Starship) Verified today

SpaceX · Starbase, TX · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-03
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Automation & Controls Engineer, Infrastructure & Utility (Starship)

Join the Infrastructure Engineering team at SpaceX to pioneer the design, build, operation, and maintenance of critical power, HVAC, utility and fluids systems for Starship's launch, production, propellant generation, and Starbase, TX. You'll work with a team to scale high-capacity infrastructure for the world's most powerful rocket, ensuring seamless energy and commodity delivery. The position is based at Starbase, TX, with potential travel to other SpaceX facilities.

Responsibilities

  • Design, build, operate, and maintain automation, control and SCADA systems for ground infrastructure and utility systems at Starbase, TX.
  • Manage control and automation upgrades to dynamically scale systems for Starship's production rate targets.
  • Design and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA applications in a high-reliability production and launch environment.
  • Develop and deploy standardized automation for critical power and utility systems.
  • Design, redline, modify, and correct electrical and pneumatic schematics using tools including EPLAN.
  • Design new industrial electrical control panels that are NFPA 79, NEC, and UL 508A compliant.
  • Develop power systems controls and hardware in compliance with NFPA 70, 70B, 70E, NESC, and IEEE standards.
  • Maintain organized documentation for all Starbase SCADA systems.
  • Create written and visual instructions from design review, technical drawings, and requirement documentation.
  • Audit manufacturing processes, assessing inefficiencies, safety improvements, and automation opportunities.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, lead projects, and drive rapid, continuous improvements at Starbase.
  • Develop SOWs and manage contractor work to enable the in-house build team to keep pace with production needs.
  • Mentor and lead a team of engineers and technicians in automation and controls projects.
  • Plan, prioritize, and execute weekly tasks to meet team objectives.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, or another engineering discipline.
  • 1+ years of experience designing, analyzing, and working on automation and control systems (internship and school projects experience qualify).

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • 3+ years of professional experience in a similar role.
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license or intention to pursue.
  • Experience designing and developing HMI applications with Ignition.
  • Familiarity with SEL, Allen Bradley and Siemens suite of control devices.
  • Experience developing and deploying server/client SCADA applications.
  • Ability to analyze electrical one-line drawings, DC/AC schematics, and bills of materials.
  • Experience designing control logic schemes and network configurations.
  • Experience with IEC-61131 programming.
  • Experience with IT/OT network design and troubleshooting.
  • Familiarity with industrial communications protocols and networking: Modbus, IEEE C37.115, IEEE C37.111, DNP3.
  • Electrical schematic CAD experience using EPLAN, AutoCAD, or similar tools.
  • C#, .NET, Python and/or SQL experience.
  • Demonstrated initiative, creative problem-solving, and strong analytical and engineering fundamentals.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills to prioritize, schedule, and implement solutions with minimal operational impact.
  • Ability to quickly troubleshoot issues and support technicians hands-on.

Additional Requirements

  • Perform hands-on work in all environments (heat, cold, rain), in tight quarters or at heights.
  • Work extended hours and weekends as needed to support launch operations.
  • Remain focused in hazardous environments while wearing appropriate PPE.
  • Lift up to 25 lbs unassisted.
  • Provide 24/7 on-call support for emergencies.

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 the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.