Automation & Controls Specialist (Starship)

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 (STARSHIP) SpaceX is committed to developing revolutionary space technology, with the ultimate goal of enabling people to live on other planets.

The Production Automation Controls Specialist will support the development and construction of tooling for Starship and Super Heavy Booster, part of a fully reusable transportation system designed to launch both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The Production Automation and Controls Specialist role is a system-focused, multi-faceted position. The specialist will be responsible for owning, installing and commissioning of new automation assets, panel builds, and drawing updates.

Additionally, the Automation and Controls Specialist will be responsible for implementing long-term reliability improvements to production systems. This role provides operational support in the review and interpretation of data collected on these systems. Specialists commission and integrate physical hardware including but not limited to wire harnesses, PCBs, custom enclosures, PLCs, data acquisition systems, pneumatic systems, and sensors.

The Automation and Controls Specialist’s systems support operations that enable safe, economical, and reliable access to space.

RESPONSIBILITIES

: Own and hands-on execute industrial automation projects, in collaboration with Engineers, specialists, and Technicians from different groups Develop and upgrade data acquisition and control systems Provide technical support and guidance for controls technicians and other non-controls engineering groups Lead technicians and/or contractors efficiently Commission new hardware Actively perform continuous improvements for team processes, quality, faster build times, lower maintenance needs, project kitting, streamlined communication between teams, and feedback loops Perform daily task prioritization including risk mitigation on current and upcoming projects Draft and redline drawings in Electrical and Fluids Schematics Be a liaison, in design stage and during builds, between Tooling Engineering and Automation Controls for controls hardware mounting and overall cable management Program PLC’s and HMI’s according to engineering design 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, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment BASIC

while working in a high-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 Experience in programming PLC and HMI 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 Select and size electrical and electromechanical components such as servo motors, controllers, and VFDs Experience designing

QUALIFICATIONS

: High school diploma or equivalency certificate 1+ years of experience in a controls technician or specialist role 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 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/