Automation & Controls Specialist (Starlink Development)

About the role

SpaceX is developing a low-latency, broadband internet system to meet the needs of consumers across the globe. Enabled by a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites, Starlink will provide fast, reliable internet to populations with little or no connectivity, including those in rural communities and places where existing services are too expensive or unreliable.

The Automation & Controls team is responsible for designing, building, installing, and commissioning new automation assets, which are key in enabling production. The Automation & Controls Specialists are responsible for the hands-on integration, commissioning, and design iteration process alongside engineering to deliver safe, innovative, and reliable solutions for the Starlink program.

Responsibilities

• Integrate and commission electromechanical production systems using a wide array of tools, machines, and equipment, and collaborate with engineering to deliver solutions
• Develop, build, and execute new automation solutions for our production lines and work to improve existing automated assets to meet production requirements
• Read, understand, utilize, and redline system-level schematics (mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic)
• Build industrial control panels to NFPA 79 & UL 508A standards
• Design, implement, and commission PLC and HMI software applications
• Spec and procure required components, sensors, and hardware needed for implementing control solutions
• Maintain and support the operation of the automation lab by enforcing proper workflow, safety, tidiness, and inventory control of consumables and equipment
• Perform and promote 5S principles of organizing and sustaining an efficient and presentable team work space
• Work creatively and innovate to support team goals by always being prepared to challenge the status quo and develop unique solutions

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of automation experience in a manufacturing and production environment
• 2+ years of experience working with mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic systems

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated hands-on skill in fault finding and mechanical system troubleshooting
• Creative, detail oriented, and highly organized with exceptional communication skills
• Strong, working knowledge of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety), NFPA 79, and UL508A codes
• PLC & HMI programming experience or familiarization using ladder logic and structured text (Beckoff Twincat, Siemens TIA, and Allen-Bradley RSLogix)
• Experience with electrical and pneumatic schematics for automated equipment using EPLAN Electrical/Fluid and Visio software suites or equivalent
• Experience with electrical control panel design, building, and wiring
• Excellent skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Skilled in gathering and analyzing information to understand complex problems
• Ability to maintain a safe and clean working environment while adhering to company policies, quality policies, and industry standards

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to acquire forklift certification
• Ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted
• Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position
• Must be willing to work overtime and weekends as required to support critical milestones

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.