Automation & Controls Engineer (Starlink) Verified today
About the role
Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users. As a member of the Starlink Tooling and Automation team, you will work with elite engineers on high-impact applications to create the factory of the future for high-volume satellite production.
Responsibilities
- Design, build, qualify and implement projects spanning machine design, robotics and manufacturing processes from initial ideation to production use
- Architect, write, and debug PLC code
- Implement vision systems for robotic guidance, quality control and data collection
- Design systems to control processes, track factory performance and collaborate across teams to increase manufacturing efficiency in a data-driven way
- Design user interfaces that make complex machines easy to use and troubleshoot
- Create electrical, pneumatic and fluid schematics for control panels
- Keep factories safe by implementing ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant systems
Basic qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science or another STEM discipline
- 1+ years of experience in the design and commissioning of automation and control systems in a manufacturing environment (internships and project work are applicable)
Preferred skills and experience
Hands-on experience with at least one of the following areas and interest in learning others:
Industrial Automation
- Automation Hardware: PLCs, COTS robots, servo motion, machine vision, distributed IO, pneumatic controls
- Field Bus Networking protocols: EtherCAT, PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU
- Machinery and processes: dispenser, pick and place, fastener installation, automated bonding, thermo-compression, soldering, ultrasonic welding, temperature and position control, injection molders, die casters and design for manufacturing
- Applied Statistical Process Control and data tools to improve manufacturing processes
- Safely testing and commissioning integrated systems
Software
- PLC programming, preferably Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text, state machines, Object Oriented Programming applied to mechanical assemblies, electrical systems, sensors, pneumatics/hydraulics
- Robotics programming, preferably ABB Rapid
- HMI, SCADA, IoT (MQTT, OPC-UA), SQL, C#, .NET, Python
- Industrial machine vision, Cognex Vision Pro preferred, Halcon and OpenCV acceptable
Electrical
- Electrical sizing of motors, cables, circuit protection, VFDs, motor starters and various motion systems
- Design of fail-safe electrical circuits using safety logic controllers and safety-rated relays
- Hands-on troubleshooting of industrial electrical systems using multimeters, oscilloscopes, EMI probes
- Proficiency in understanding and creating electrical schematics and single line diagrams (EPLAN preferred)
- Analog signal integrity and EMI reduction
- Hands-on experience designing and commissioning high-quality electrical panels and electro-mechanical systems with appropriate safety considerations
- Knowledge of NEC, NFPA, UL508A codes and ability to ensure compliance with control system safety standards
Proven ability to solve complex problems with simple solutions and work with little supervision. Excited by fast-paced environments with a strong desire and ability to learn quickly and adapt. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
Additional requirements
- Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
Compensation and benefits
Pay Range:
Level 1: $100,000 - $135,000
Level 2: $115,000 - $165,000
Actual level and base salary determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge and skills, education and experience.
Benefits include long-term incentives in company stock or long-term cash awards, potential discretionary bonuses, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, comprehensive medical, vision and dental coverage, 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10 or more paid holidays per year, and various other discounts and perks. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
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. Section 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. Section 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.