Mechanical Engineer, PCB (Starlink) Verified today
Mechanical Engineer, PCB (Starlink)
SpaceX is deploying Starlink, the world's largest satellite constellation and most advanced broadband internet system. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system, thousands of satellites and consumer antennae that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing.
As a Mechanical Engineer on Starlink, you will spearhead state-of-the-art production processes for printed circuit boards (PCBs). You will develop and implement all equipment, facilities, tooling, and manufacturing process technologies necessary to scale production to high volumes. You will own your projects from conception and factory design through machine installation, commissioning, factory ramp, and process optimization.
By the end of this year, the Starlink factory in Bastrop will be the largest PCB manufacturing facility, by volume, in North America. Your work will form the backbone for millions of next-generation consumer-facing devices that we ship directly to customers and businesses worldwide.
What you will do
- Develop, implement, and maintain new and/or improved manufacturing processes, equipment, technologies, and facilities, including laser and mechanical CNC drilling machines, advanced inductive lamination machines, plasma etching chambers, screen printing and inkjet printing adhesives, automation cells, copper etching and plating lines
- Analyze production processes and machinery from a first principles, physics-based approach
- Lead Design of Experiments (DOE) to establish stable and robust processes; perform defect characterization and root cause analysis to improve yields
- Develop project plans, budgets, and cost/benefit analysis for implementation of new processes or machines
- Own and perform machine activation and testing with a small team of engineers and technicians
- Solve technical and emergent issues from manufacturing including part quality, machine reliability, and process instability
Basic qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in engineering discipline
- 1+ years of experience with fluids, mechanical, electromechanical design, and/or analysis (internship or project team experience applicable)
Preferred skills and experience
- Master's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
- 2+ years hands-on project experience with complex fluid or mechanical based production systems in a professional setting, preferably as a lead
- 3+ years of professional experience in design and analysis
- Experience with taking products from research and development into production
- Experience with PCB manufacturing processes including metal plating, chemical etching, CNC drill equipment, lamination presses, cleanroom equipment
Additional requirements
- 2nd shift: M-F 5pm-5am
- Willingness to travel to other SpaceX sites and/or vendors for potentially extended periods including international
- Ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted
- Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required
- Must work onsite; remote work is not available
- Must be a U.S. citizen, national, lawful permanent resident, 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 to comply with ITAR export regulations