Automation & Controls Specialist, Silicon Process Manufacturing (Starlink)

SpaceX; Town of Texas (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX in Wisconsin is seeking an Automation & Controls Specialist to support silicon packaging from concept to mass production. You will integrate electromechanical systems, validate vendor equipment, and develop PLC/SCADA/HMI software for wafer, chip, and panel packaging.

You will troubleshoot using schematics and push for safe, efficient automation solutions. The role requires hands-on automation experience in manufacturing, strong programming skills, and the ability to work across

Qualifications

• 2+ years programming experience in listed languages.
• Automation experience in manufacturing or with mechanical/electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Integrate and commission electromechanical production systems with diverse tools and equipment.
• Validate and integrate vendor/OEM equipment into company systems for traceability.
• Develop, modify, and maintain PLC/SCADA/HMI software for wafer-level, chip-level, and panel-level packaging.
• Develop new automation solutions and improve existing assets to meet production needs.
• Read schematics (mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic) for troubleshooting.
• Spec and procure components for control solutions in advanced packaging.
• Maintain factory operations with 5S principles and inventory control.
• Promote 5S and foster a safe, efficient workspace.
• Innovate to support team goals with high-reliability packaging production.

Skills

C/C++

Python

IEC 61131-3

Java

Jython

Automation experience

Mech/Elect/Pneumatic/Hydraulic

Education

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

Tools

PLC programming

Beckhoff TwinCAT

SCADA/HMI software

Industrial networking (EtherCAT, Profinet)

ABB Robotics

NFPA/ISO/ANSI safety standards

Job description

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS SPECIALIST, SILICON PROCESS MANUFACTURING (STARLINK)

We are looking for hands‑on and dynamic specialists to support our engineering team with expertise in semiconductor packaging execution, process support, equipment operation, and testing. You will assist in executing packaging processes and tasks, helping to take them from concept to mass production as we strive to make Starlink more affordable to those who need it most.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Integrate and commission electromechanical production systems using a wide array of tools, machines, and equipment, and collaborate with engineering to deliver solutions for the silicon packaging line
• Validate and integrate vendor/OEM equipment into company systems for traceability and centralized control
• Develop, modify, and maintain software applications (PLC/SCADA/HMI) tailored to wafer-level, chip-level, and panel-level packaging operations
• Develop, build, and execute new automation solutions for our production lines and work to improve existing automated assets to meet production requirements in semiconductor packaging
• Read, understand, and utilize system‑level schematics (mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic) for troubleshooting and improving packaging assembly equipment
• Spec and procure required components, sensors, and hardware needed for implementing control solutions in advanced packaging environments
• Maintain and support the operation of the factory by enforcing proper workflow, safety, tidiness, and inventory control of consumables and equipment used in silicon packaging
• Perform and promote 5S principles of organizing and sustaining an efficient and presentable team workspace
• Work creatively and innovate to support team goals by always being prepared to challenge the status quo and develop unique solutions for high‑reliability packaging production

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of programming experience in one of: C, C++, Visual Basic, Python, IEC Structured Text (IEC 61131‑3), Java, "Jython"
• One of the following:
  • 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 troubleshooting electromechanical systems using tools like multimeters, oscilloscopes, EMI probes, and PLC/SCADA/robot software packages
• Demonstrated willingness to develop software, electrical, and mechanical technical skills
• Creative, detail‑oriented, and highly organized with exceptional communication skills
• Familiarity with SEMI organization semiconductor standards
• Applied understanding of SECS‑GEM and how to integrate into a Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
• HMI, SCADA, IoT (MQTT, OPC‑UA), Ignition systems with focus on user‑friendly navigation and machine health monitoring and control
• PLC programming, preferably Beckhoff TwinCAT Structured Text programming
• Robotics programming, preferably ABB
• Field Bus Networking protocols, preferably EtherCAT, Profinet, Profisafe, Ethernet/IP
• Industrial electrical application to mechanical assemblies, electrical systems, sensors, pneumatics/hydraulics, software design, including how to safely checkout these interdisciplinary systems prior to production implementation
• Ability to engineer creative and new approaches to problems while adhering to NFPA/ISO/ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA safety requirements to keep a factory safe

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.

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].