Manufacturing Engineer, Next-Gen Compute Systems (Starlink)

SpaceX; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer for next-generation compute systems (Starlink). Based in Texas, you will own end-to-end processes turning cutting-edge designs into reliable, high-throughput hardware, collaborating with design, operations, and suppliers to stand up a new production capability.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment where you solve hard problems with impact, enjoy building production systems from zero, and want to be an integral player to inform the hardware that

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent.
• 1+ years in manufacturing environment or related experience.
• Experience transitioning designs to high-volume production.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement electro‑mechanical assembly and test processes with rapid iteration.
• Collaborate with mechanical design team and end users for manufacturability and test optimization.
• Develop and implement automated inspection of rack components.
• Lead development builds to meet production ramp milestones.
• Track manufacturing metrics around rate, cost, and quality.
• Define tooling and hardware requirements and iterate from shop floor feedback.

Skills

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Automation

Machine vision

DOE

Tooling design

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

NX

Teamcenter

ERP/MRP/MES

Job description

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.

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER, NEXT-GEN COMPUTE SYSTEMS (STARLINK)

SpaceX is building the foundation for the industry’s first in-space compute infrastructure by bringing high-density data rack manufacturing in-house. As a Manufacturing Engineer on the Vera Rubin compute team, you will own the end-to-end processes that turn cutting‑edge designs into reliable, high‑throughput hardware—interacting regularly with senior leadership while helping stand up a brand‑new production capability from scratch.

If you thrive in a fast‑paced environment where you solve hard problems with impact, love building production systems from zero, and want to be an integral player to inform the hardware that will one day fly in space - this role is for you.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and implement electro‑mechanical assembly and test processes with rapid iteration
• Collaborate with the mechanical design team and end users to incorporate design for manufacturability & test optimization
• Develop and implement automated optical inspection (AOI) of critical rack components
• Lead development builds ensuring incremental milestones for the production ramp are met
• Track manufacturing system key metrics around rate, cost, and quality
• Influence facilities development, floor layout, headcount requirements, and material flow definition through multiple phases of product ramp
• Identify tooling and hardware requirements, design and implement them into production processes. Rapidly iterate improvements based on shop floor feedback and production defect data analysis
• Identify automation opportunities and evaluate return on investment for each
• Work with in‑house resources and vendors as necessary to develop manufacturing solutions and implement on the production line

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment via professional work experience, project/research‑based student experience, or a combination of both

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Demonstrated experience working in a highly adaptive and iterative environment
• Proven excellence in a high‑volume commercial or automotive manufacturing environment
• Experience transitioning products from design to manufacturing and scaling to high volume as part of a cross‑functional team
• Experience with machine vision or automated optical inspection
• Experience with DOE, gage R&R, and process qualifications
• Ability to design tooling for high‑volume manufacturing
• Demonstrated experience implementing automation into production processes
• Experience integrating mechanical and electrical assemblies with both manual and automated processes
• Ability to develop and maintain high‑performing suppliers and contract manufacturers
• Experience with AutoCAD, NX and Teamcenter
• Experience working with and defining requirements for ERP, MRP, and MES systems
• Experience with fluid or gas handling systems.
• Knowledge and experience with testing of pressurized systems.
• Experience with instrumentation and data acquisition.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 25lbs.
• Ability to travel for short and extended trips as needed - up to 10% travel.

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 Affi.