Automation & Controls Engineer, Launch Pad (Starship)

SpaceX; Starbase (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking an Automation & Controls Engineer for the launch pads of the Starship system in Texas. This role involves designing and implementing control systems, programming PLCs, and ensuring systems are robust to mechanical stresses.

Ideal candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering and have experience with control systems in industrial settings. Strong knowledge of electrical systems and proficiency with CAD tools will be essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in the design and commissioning of control systems for industrial applications (internship experience qualifies).

Responsibilities

• Design control systems for the Starship launch pads.
• Write and debug PLC code for control systems.
• Generate human-machine interface screens for machinery.

Skills

Electrical control systems design

Programmable logic controller (PLC) coding

Industrial communication protocols

CAD experience (EPLAN, Siemens NX, SolidWorks)

Knowledge of NEC, UL 508A codes

Education

Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is 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 ENGINEER, LAUNCH PAD (STARSHIP)

SpaceX’s Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket, collectively known as Starship, is a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We are looking for an automation & controls engineer to develop and build launch and test systems for Starship, focusing on electrical control systems for the launch mount, integration tower, and orbital propellant farm, including input/output (I/O), motion systems, drive controls, and supporting infrastructure. The successful candidate will join a highly talented team of engineers with a proven track record of developing advanced automated solutions.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Electrical systems:

• Architect, design, integrate, and commission control systems for the Starship launch pads
• Design industrial electrical control panels that are NFPA 79/NEC/UL 508A compliant
• Design control and data acquisition systems
• Design and author electrical schematics
• Design electrical conveyance and distribution systems (e.g., raceways, cables, wiring methods)
• Work closely with other disciplines; interface control systems with high‑power equipment and communication equipment
• Design electrical systems for hazardous environments

Control software:

• Architect, write, and debug programmable logic controller (PLC) code with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable for similar applications
• Configure, commission, and tune variable frequency drives (VFDs) for open‑ and closed‑loop control system applications
• Generate aesthetically simple human‑machine interface (HMI) screens for complex machinery while providing sufficient feedback for troubleshooting
• Commission devices using a variety of industrial communication protocols
• Set up and tune proportional‑integral‑derivative (PID) controllers for continuous processes

Mechanical integration:

• Add detail for electrical assemblies to CAD models to plan out installation for cable tray, conduit, panel mounting, etc.
• Design systems that are robust to the mechanical stresses of Starship launch

General responsibilities:

• Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and carefully balance product specifications, requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead‑time limits
• Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, and conveyance installs
• Set, implement, and maintain schedules and budgets to ensure project completion
• Document control system built for handoff to pad operators

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience in the design and commissioning of control systems for industrial applications (internship experience qualifies)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Electrical schematic CAD experience using EPLAN
• Mechanical design experience with CAD, such as Siemens NX or SolidWorks
• Field bus networks, serial communication, and Ethernet communication
• Hands‑on experience building and commissioning high‑quality electrical control panels and electro‑mechanical systems
• Knowledge of NEC, UL 508A codes
• Experience in fast‑paced iterative design and test environments
• Experience solving complex problems with little to no supervision on schedule as an individual or as a member of an integrated team
• Strong work ethic and drive to succeed as part of a high‑functioning team
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high‑paced, challenging work environment
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity, independently drive project progress, and manage multiple priorities
• Fundamental understanding of engineering principles behind electronic equipment, instrumentation, and commonly used industrial equipment
• 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
• Experience with electrical power distribution, working knowledge of NFPA 70 and NFPA 70E
• Experience with industrial bus protocols such as Modbus, Profinet, and EtherNet/IP

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
• Must be willing to travel for extended periods, up to 100% during system activation
• Ability to travel to other SpaceX or third‑party facilities (up to 20%)
• Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
• Stand: Up to 6 hours per day
• Sit: Up to 6 hours per day
• Push/Pull: Up to 50 lbs. (unassisted) between 1 and 2 hours per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 3 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 10 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: Up to 25 lbs. (unassisted) between 1 and 2 hours per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 3 hours per day
• Kneel/Crouch: Up to 3 hours per day
• Upper body twist: Up to 3 hours per day
• Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees: up to 6 hours per day
• Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, using an air‑purifying respirator, 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 [e-mail].