SMT Supplier Development Engineer — NPI & Ramp-Up

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

Bastrop, Northern (TX, KY)

Hybrid

USD 110,000 - 150,000

Full time

2 days ago

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Job summary

SpaceX in Bastrop, TX is seeking a Supplier Development Engineer focused on Surface Mount Technology (SMT) for Starlink PCBA manufacturing. You will lead NPI efforts, coordinate with global suppliers, and ensure quality and yield for high-volume production.

This role requires strong hands-on SMT expertise and a proven track record in supplier development to meet SpaceX clock-speed production demands. The position is onsite in Bastrop, with travel up to 50% and collaboration across design,

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, manufacturing engineering or related field.
2+ years in PCBA manufacturing focusing on SMT processes (screen printing, pick-and-place, reflow, inspection).
Hands-on experience with SMT equipment from Fuji, Panasonic, DEK or similar.

Responsibilities

Lead supplier qualification, development and performance management for SMT/PCBA manufacturing.
Drive NPI for new SMT lines, including validation, equipment selection and yield optimization.
Identify and resolve SMT defects in assembly, such as paste application, placement, reflow and AOI.
Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions using PFMEA, DOE and SPC.
Collaborate with design, manufacturing and quality teams to incorporate DFM/DFA feedback.
Travel to supplier sites (up to 50%) to audit facilities and support ramp-ups.
Develop supplier scorecards, KPIs and continuous improvement plans for cost, yield and resilience.
Support transition from prototype to mass production including capacity planning and automation integration.
Ensure adherence to IPC-A-610, J-STD-001 and SpaceX requirements.