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

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

Join SpaceX's Infrastructure Engineering team to design, build, operate, and maintain critical automation and control systems for Starship's launch, production, propellant generation, and Starbase facilities in Texas. You'll scale high-capacity infrastructure for the world's most powerful rocket, ensuring reliable power, HVAC, and utility systems.

What You'll Do

  • Design, build, operate, and maintain automation, control, and SCADA systems for Starbase ground infrastructure.
  • Develop and deploy standardized automation for critical power and utility systems.
  • Design, commission, and manage PLC, HMI, and SCADA applications in high-reliability production and launch environments.
  • Design industrial electrical control panels compliant with NFPA 79, NEC, and UL 508A standards.
  • Develop power systems controls and hardware in compliance with NFPA 70, 70B, 70E, NESC, and IEEE standards.
  • Design, redline, and modify electrical and pneumatic schematics using EPLAN and other tools.
  • Create technical documentation and visual instructions from design reviews and requirement documentation.
  • Audit manufacturing processes for inefficiencies, safety improvements, and automation opportunities.
  • Manage control and automation upgrades to scale systems for Starship production rate targets.
  • Develop statements of work, negotiate, and manage contractor activities.
  • Mentor and lead a team of engineers and technicians on automation and controls projects.
  • Work with cross-functional teams to drive rapid, continuous improvements at Starbase.
  • Maintain organized documentation for all SCADA systems.

You Have

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, or related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years designing, analyzing, and working on automation and control systems (internship and school projects count).

Preferred Experience

  • 8+ years professional experience in a similar role.
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license or intention to pursue.
  • Experience designing HMI applications with Ignition.
  • Familiarity with SEL, Allen Bradley, and Siemens 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.
  • IEC-61131 programming experience.
  • IT/OT network design and troubleshooting.
  • Knowledge of industrial communications protocols: Modbus, IEEE C37.115, IEEE C37.111, DNP3.
  • Electrical schematic CAD experience with EPLAN or AutoCAD.
  • C#, .NET, Python, and/or SQL programming.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational and troubleshooting abilities.

Physical and Operational Requirements

  • Perform hands-on work in all environments: heat, cold, rain, tight quarters, and 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.
  • Valid driver's license required.

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.