Automation & Controls Engineer (Starship Launch Pad) Verified today
Automation & Controls Engineer (Starship Launch Pad)
You will be a systems-focused engineer using electrical and mechanical knowledge to design launch infrastructure for the Starship launch vehicle. You will develop and integrate physical hardware including wire harnesses, PCBs, custom enclosures, PLCs, data acquisition systems, avionics systems, engine controllers, and sensors. You are responsible for transferring real-time data from physical sensors to pad operators and engineers. Accurate data interpretation and operational support are critical to enabling safe, economical, and reliable access to space.
Responsibilities
- Design and build controls infrastructure for ground support equipment required to test and launch Starship
- Maintain operational capability of all control voltage level electrical systems (less than 60V) once activated
- Develop and upgrade data acquisition and control systems across launch infrastructure
- Create new automation systems to support evolving launch and test infrastructure needs
- Provide technical support and guidance for controls technicians and non-controls engineering groups
- Develop new hardware and processes to improve capabilities, reduce cost, and setup time of electrical systems
- Analyze data to assess function and health of electrical systems
- Assist in design and analysis of experiments to evaluate test articles
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in physics, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related technical discipline
- 1 or more years of experience in design and commissioning of automation and controls systems for industrial applications
Preferred Experience
- Ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot data acquisition and control hardware
- Fundamental understanding of engineering principles behind 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 and Division 2 environments or IEC equivalents)
- Familiarity with mixed signal electronics, power supply design, analog filtering, testing and troubleshooting, signal integrity, layout and grounding
- Schematic capture and printed circuit board (PCB) design or verification and validation experience
- Experience with electrical power distribution and working knowledge of NFPA 70 and NFPA 70E
- Programming and software development experience
- Experience with industrial bus protocols such as Modbus, Profinet, and EtherNet/IP
- Hands-on experience activating, building, and troubleshooting analog and digital electronic systems including avionics
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong work ethic 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
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
- Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral
- Ability to perform job duties requiring standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, and working in cramped positions in small openings
- Ability to climb up and down stairs and/or ladders regularly throughout the day
- Lift and carry up to 25 lbs unassisted for 1 to 2 hours per day
- Work in environments with exposure to fumes, odors, flashing lights, heat, cold, rain, and noise
- Ability to travel to other SpaceX or third-party facilities (up to 25%)
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.