Equipment Maintenance Technician (Starlink/Akoustis)

About the role

Akoustis is now operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of SpaceX providing industry leading RF filters using patented XBAW technology to help drive the mission of making human life multi-planetary, while also connecting the world through Starlink. Our work helps further the impact that Starlink is already making on millions of users around the world, while allowing us to broaden that reach dramatically and continue connecting the unconnected here on earth.

Akoustis supports the success of Starlink by supplying world class RF filters manufactured with the highest levels of quality and reliability. At Akoustis, we continually strive for manufacturing excellence with a focus on cost controls and production throughput. We are seeking an experienced Equipment Maintenance Technician to join our fast-paced manufacturing team.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventative and unplanned maintenance repairs of production line equipment that includes photolithography, die prep, grind and polish, AOI, die bonding, curing ovens, physical vapor deposition (PVD) systems, electrochemical plating, wet/dry etch, dry films, metrology and back end semiconductor (RF) test equipment
• Read and utilize schematics to troubleshoot systems down to the component level
• Read and safely execute lockout tagout (LOTO) procedures
• Utilize diagnostic equipment to monitor equipment performance, diagnose root cause, and develop/implement solutions
• Use schematics, hand tools, electrical gauges and common test equipment for calibration, diagnosis, and repair of machinery or peripheral equipment
• Communicate with suppliers, specify requirements, obtain quotes, and submit purchase requisitions to procure necessary items to reduce/eliminate equipment downtime
• Provide feedback, work with equipment reliability, process engineering, and vendor teams to identify root cause of failures associated with equipment downtime and drive solutions
• Participate in basic training and safety drills to stay current on equipment handling and emergency response
• Support root cause analysis for process excursions and implement corrective actions to improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 3+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment; OR bachelor's degree in an engineering, math or science discipline

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Degree in electronics technology, mechanical engineering, or related field
• 6+ years of direct experience in semiconductor photolithography operations within a fab environment
• 6+ years as a field service engineer responsible for installing and commissioning equipment
• 6+ years experience in deposition for wafer or advanced packaging CVD/PVD/ALD or epitaxy
• 6+ years experience with high plasma, reactive ion etch (RIE), or ion implantation
• Excellent manual dexterity in order to repair and perform preventative maintenance on precision manufacturing equipment
• Ability to use power tools and hand tools, unique and custom test and measurement equipment for calibration and troubleshooting, micrometers, calipers, drop gauges, multimeters, tensiometers, vacuum testers, analytical testers and others
• Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics and drawings
• Ability to write detailed repair reports when necessary (skilled with use of Microsoft Office Suite)
• Experienced in root cause analysis and scientific problem solving (e.g. Fishbone, 8D, A3)
• Detail oriented, organized, and able to demonstrate a high sense of urgency
• Thorough proficiency in electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and controls troubleshooting
• Familiarity with hand tools, meters, and high vacuum systems
• Strong safety awareness, attention to detail, and ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs)

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Must be available to travel for short trips as needed, up to 10% travel
• This position will work closely with technicians and may require lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing and carrying
• Ability to work in outdoor environments as needed
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted
• This position is 100% onsite at our Canandaigua, NY facility
• Due to the facility transitioning to 24/7 operations, the work schedule for this position will evolve after training:
• You will start with standard daytime hours during training: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday - Friday)
• A-Shift: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Sunday - Tuesday and every other Wednesday)
• B-Shift: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Thursday - Saturday and every other Wednesday)
• C-Shift: 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM (Sunday - Tuesday and every other Wednesday) - eligible for 15% shift differential
• D-Shift: 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM (Thursday - Saturday and every other Wednesday) - eligible for 15% shift differential

Pay range

Equipment Maintenance Technician: $29.00 - $46.00/hour

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.

Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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.