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Automation & Controls Engineer, Launch Pad (Starship) Verified today

SpaceX · Starbase, TX · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-03
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About the Role

SpaceX is developing Starship, a fully reusable transportation system for crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond. You will develop and build launch and test systems focused on electrical control systems for the launch mount, integration tower, and orbital propellant farm, including input/output (I/O), motion systems, drive controls, and supporting infrastructure.

Electrical Systems

  • Architect, design, integrate, and commission control systems for Starship launch pads
  • Design industrial electrical control panels compliant with NFPA 79, NEC, and UL 508A standards
  • Design control and data acquisition systems
  • Design and author electrical schematics
  • Design electrical conveyance and distribution systems (raceways, cables, wiring methods)
  • Interface control systems with high-power and communication equipment across disciplines
  • Design electrical systems for hazardous environments

Control Software

  • Architect, write, and debug PLC code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable
  • Configure, commission, and tune variable frequency drives (VFDs) for open- and closed-loop applications
  • Generate simple human-machine interface (HMI) screens for complex machinery
  • Commission devices using industrial communication protocols
  • Set up and tune proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controllers for continuous processes

Mechanical Integration

  • Add detail for electrical assemblies to CAD models for cable tray, conduit, and panel mounting planning
  • Design systems robust to mechanical stresses of Starship launch

General Responsibilities

  • Participate in initial equipment conceptual development, balancing specifications, requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead-time limits
  • Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, and conveyance installs
  • Set, implement, and maintain schedules and budgets
  • Document control systems for handoff to pad operators

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of experience in design and commissioning of control systems for industrial applications (internship experience qualifies)

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Electrical schematic CAD experience using EPLAN
  • Mechanical design experience with Siemens NX or SolidWorks
  • Field bus networks, serial communication, and Ethernet communication
  • Hands-on experience building and commissioning electrical control panels and electro-mechanical systems
  • Knowledge of NEC and UL 508A codes
  • Experience in fast-paced iterative design and test environments
  • Experience solving complex problems with minimal supervision
  • Ability to work in high-paced, challenging environments and manage multiple priorities
  • Fundamental understanding of electronic equipment, instrumentation, and industrial equipment
  • Experience designing and installing instrumentation and control systems in hazardous areas (NFPA 70 Section 500, Class 1 Division 1/2, or IEC equivalence)
  • Experience with electrical power distribution and NFPA 70 and NFPA 70E
  • Experience with industrial bus protocols such as Modbus, Profinet, and EtherNet/IP

Additional Requirements

  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
  • Willing to travel for extended periods, up to 100% during system activation
  • Ability to travel to other SpaceX or third-party facilities (up to 20%)
  • Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
  • Physical capability: stand up to 6 hours per day, sit up to 6 hours per day, push/pull up to 50 lbs for 1-2 hours per day, overhead reach up to 3 hours per day, walk up to 10 hours per day, lift/carry up to 25 lbs for 1-2 hours per day, climb ladders/stairs up to 3 hours per day, kneel/crouch up to 3 hours per day, upper body twist up to 3 hours per day
  • Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees for up to 6 hours per day
  • Capability to safely work at heights (up to 500 ft), in confined spaces, using air purifying respirator, operating heavy equipment and machinery
  • May be required to complete pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm capabilities

ITAR Requirement

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.