Materials Engineer for On-Orbit AI Compute

InvestedintheMission; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Materials Engineer for the Starmind program to own the hardware lifecycle supporting on-orbit AI compute. You’ll develop high-reliability microelectronics packaging, cooling systems, and radiator hardware for satellites and participate in end-to-end materials development from specification to failure analysis.

You will collaborate with mechanical, thermal, electrical, software, and supply chain teams to deliver high-performance hardware while addressing packaging challenges

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, or related field.
• Experience in microelectronics device research or manufacturing.
• Master’s degree in materials science or related field preferred.
• Internship or early-career experience in hardware, robotics, automation, or manufacturing environments.
• Experience designing tooling, fixtures, or jigs for assembly or test applications.
• Exposure to scripting or data analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for process data analysis or automation.
• Experience with precision assemblies, robotic systems, or automated pick-and-place equipment.
• Familiarity with PFMEA, process capability studies, SPC.
• Familiarity with cleanroom or controlled-environment manufacturing practices.

Responsibilities

• Rapidly develop high-reliability microelectronics packages, cooling systems, and radiator hardware for satellites.
• Own the full lifecycle of materials specification, validation, and process development, including device modeling and failure analysis.
• Drive system trades, requirements capture, materials selection, prototyping, manufacturing, failure analysis.
• Build supply chains for build-up layers, plating chemicals, coatings, TIMs; define incoming acceptance criteria.
• Address materials and process challenges in advanced packaging and develop TIM materials.
• Specify and implement in-process metrology tools for quality control; design thermal test vehicles.
• Work with engineers across disciplines to deliver tightly integrated, high-performance hardware.
• Challenge assumptions, learn from mistakes, and approach problems with an open mind.
• Manage compliance risks related to materials and processes; ensure safety and environmental compliance.
• Collaborate with leadership across departments to integrate materials innovations into product roadmaps.

Skills

Microelectronics packaging

Thermal management

Materials characterization

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in materials science

Master's in materials science

Tools

Python scripting

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a Materials Engineer for the Starmind program to own the hardware lifecycle supporting on-orbit AI compute. You’ll develop high-reliability microelectronics packaging, cooling systems, and radiator hardware for satellites and participate in end-to-end materials development from specification to failure analysis.

You will collaborate with mechanical, thermal, electrical, software, and supply chain teams to deliver high-performance hardware while addressing packaging challenges