Automation & Controls Specialist

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS SPECIALIST

The launch and test automation and controls specialist role is system-focused and multifaceted. The specialist installs and commissions new automation assets, builds panels, updates drawings, and builds and commissions the data acquisition and control systems required for Starship launches, design and qualification testing, and propellant generation. The specialist develops and integrates hardware including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), wire harnesses, printed circuit boards (PCBs), custom enclosures, motor drive controls, and sensors. These systems support operations that enable safe, economical, and reliable access to space.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and upgrade electrical systems for ground support data acquisition and control
• Develop new hardware and processes to improve capabilities, cost, and setup time of ground support electrical systems
• Develop electrical schematics for system build and commissioning
• Develop software configurations required for control system capabilities
• Provide technical support and guidance for controls technicians and other non-controls engineering groups
• Lead shifts of technicians and/or contractors efficiently
• Analyze data to assess the function of electrical systems
• Assist in the design and analysis of experiments to evaluate test articles
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, to support SpaceX’s goal of a multi-planetary civilization

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 4+ years of professional experience working with electrical or data acquisition systems
• 2+ years of experience designing electrical, mechanical, or control systems (experience from a university or trade school qualifies)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Occupational trade school qualification in an instrumentation or electrical-based field
• Knowledge of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety), NFPA 79, and UL508A codes
• Excellent communication skills-both written and verbal
• Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and human spaceflight
• Strong work ethic and drive to succeed as part of a high-functioning team
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a fast-paced, challenging work environment
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity, independently drive project progress, and manage multiple priorities
• Knowledge of high-reliability processes and related documentation practices
• Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot data acquisition and control hardware
• Fundamental understanding of engineering principles behind electronic equipment, instrumentation, and commonly used industrial equipment
• Ability to select and size electrical and electromechanical components such as servo motors, controllers, and variable frequency drives (VFDs)
• Experience designing and installing instrumentation and control systems in hazardous areas (NFPA 70 Section 500 installations); Class 1, Division 1 and Division 2 environments or IEC equivalence
• General schematic capture and PCB design and/or verification and validation experience
• Experience tuning PID controllers
• Experience with electrical power distribution; working knowledge of NFPA 70 and NFPA 70E
• Experience with connectorization standards such as IPC-620, NASA 8739.4, and D38999 specifications
• Hands-on experience with programming and software development
• Experience with industrial bus protocols such as Modbus, Profinet, and EtherNet/IP
• Hands-on experience activating, building, and troubleshooting analog electronic systems
• Process integration and electromechanical/mechatronic systems experience
• Experience working with National Instruments cRIOs and cDAQs
• Exposure to C/C++, Python, and JavaScript
• Experience with Linux-based operating systems

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Must be available for overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required
• Stand: Up to 10 hours per day
• Sit: Up to 10 hours per day
• Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 10 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 10 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: Up to ≤ 50 lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 6 hours per day
• Kneel/Crouch: Up to 10 hours per day
• Upper body twist: Up to 6 hours per day
• Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 6 hours or greater per day
• Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, operating heavy equipment and machinery, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description. Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.  

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to  [email protected].