Automation Design Engineer, Consumer Hardware (Starlink)

印慣敘; Town of Texas, Bastrop (WI, TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is seeking an Automation Design Engineer for its cutting-edge consumer hardware projects. This role involves designing and managing automation projects that enhance factory efficiency and safety. You will work with multidisciplinary teams to create intuitive HMI systems, develop PLC code, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Join a dynamic environment focused on maximizing the impact of advanced technologies like Starlink, where your creativity and engineering skills will help shape the future of connectivity. If you're passionate about engineering and eager to tackle complex challenges, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or computer science required.
• Experience in machine design and electrical systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage automation projects for high-volume manufacturing.
• Write and debug PLC code for factory automation systems.

Skills

PLC Programming

Machine Design

HMI Development

Electrical Design

Robotics Programming

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Bachelor's Degree in Physics

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Tools

Siemens NX

EPLAN

Beckhoff TwinCAT

Multimeters

Oscilloscopes

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity explores the stars is more exciting than one where we do not. Today, SpaceX is actively developing technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

AUTOMATION DESIGN ENGINEER, CONSUMER HARDWARE (STARLINK)

At SpaceX, we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the largest satellite constellation, providing fast, reliable internet to over 4 million users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system, including thousands of satellites, consumer receivers, and the software that integrates them. We are seeking top engineers to help maximize Starlink's global impact and utility.

Our success is driven by our commitment to keeping engineering and production in-house, enabling rapid feedback, decision-making, and delivery. Automation and Controls Engineers at our Hawthorne and Austin facilities focus on developing factory solutions for consumer electronics in the tens of millions, emphasizing technical sophistication and user-friendliness. As a team member, you will lead multidisciplinary projects involving machine design, robotics, motion systems, and factory health monitoring, contributing to the high-rate factories that deliver internet to those most in need.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Design, develop, and manage automation projects, from initial factory concept to machine commissioning and handoff to operations.
2. Architect, write, and debug PLC code, ensuring it is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable for high-volume manufacturing.
3. Ensure factory safety and reliability by implementing ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant systems for robots, gantries, conveyors, and other equipment.
4. Create simple, intuitive HMI screens for complex machines to facilitate operation and troubleshooting.
5. Design electrical systems compliant with NEC, NFPA, and UL508A standards.
6. Create schedules and budgets, and motivate the team to meet project goals.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or computer science.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Enthusiasm for rapid design and manufacturing roles.
• Ability to solve complex problems with simple solutions during design and implementation.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with collaborative and cross-functional planning abilities.
• Creativity in engineering approaches while adhering to safety standards.

Experience in at least one of the following disciplines is preferred, with a willingness to learn others:

Mechanical:

• Machine design focusing on speed, reliability, maintainability, and safety.
• Motion system sizing and implementation.
• Structural calculations and design for strength and stiffness.
• CAD skills, preferably Siemens NX and Teamcenter.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and design for manufacturability.
• Familiarity with production machinery and industrial sensors.

Electrical:

• Electrical sizing and design of motors, cables, and protection systems.
• Design of fail-safe circuits using safety logic controllers and relays.
• Troubleshooting industrial electrical systems with tools like multimeters and oscilloscopes.
• Creating electrical schematics, preferably with EPLAN.
• Understanding field bus networks and Ethernet communication.
• Designing and commissioning electrical panels with safety considerations.
• Knowledge of NEC, NFPA, UL508A codes.

Industrial Software:

• PLC programming, preferably Beckhoff TwinCAT.
• Implementing machine safety software with safety PLCs.
• Developing HMI, SCADA, IoT systems for machine monitoring and control.
• Knowledge of field bus protocols like EtherCAT, Profinet, Ethernet/IP.
• Robotics programming, preferably ABB.
• Integrating software with mechanical, electrical, and sensor systems for safe operation.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work long hours and weekends as needed for critical milestones.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or eligible for required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. For accommodations or more information, contact [e-mail].