Sr. Chemical Engineer (Starlink PCB)

Rocket Lab; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is seeking a Sr. Chemical Engineer to lead cutting-edge production processes for printed circuit boards at the largest PCB manufacturing facility in North America. This role involves designing environmentally friendly chemical recycling strategies and optimizing manufacturing processes that support millions of consumer devices globally. You will collaborate with senior leadership during critical design phases, ensuring the highest quality in production. If you are passionate about engineering and eager to contribute to groundbreaking technology, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in chemical engineering design and analysis.
• Strong skills in process optimization and defect analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain manufacturing processes for PCBs.
• Analyze production processes using physics-based principles.
• Lead machine activation and testing with engineers.

Skills

Chemical Engineering

Process Optimization

Statistical Methods

Project Management

Defect Analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Master’s degree in related field

Tools

DOE (Design of Experiments)

PCB Manufacturing Processes

Metal Plating Systems

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is 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.

SR. CHEMICAL ENGINEER, PCB (STARLINK)

Starlink aims to provide fast, reliable internet to those who need it most. We design, build, and launch the world's largest and most advanced satellite constellation capable of delivering high-speed internet to even the most remote locations. Our hardware and network are highly advanced, yet we keep the end-user experience simple—customers can get internet within 10 minutes of unboxing.

As a Sr. Chemical Engineer on Starlink, you will lead state-of-the-art production processes for printed circuit boards (PCBs). Your responsibilities include designing and implementing environmentally friendly chemical recycling strategies, developing scalable manufacturing processes, and becoming a multidisciplinary expert in PCB fabrication. Your work will support millions of next-generation consumer devices shipped worldwide, from homes to vehicles, enhancing global high-speed connectivity.

You will own various PCB production processes, from initial machine design to hands-on process optimization, and will regularly collaborate with senior leadership during critical design phases. By year's end, the Bastrop Starlink factory will be the largest PCB manufacturing facility by volume in North America.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Develop, implement, and maintain manufacturing processes, equipment, technologies, and facilities, including metal plating, copper etching, metallization, waste treatment, and plasma etching systems.
2. Analyze production processes and machinery using physics-based first principles.
3. Design experiments to diagnose and solve manufacturing issues, utilizing DOE and statistical methods.
4. Conduct defect analysis to identify root causes and improve yields.
5. Create project plans, budgets, and cost/benefit analyses for new processes or equipment.
6. Lead machine activation and testing with a team of engineers and technicians.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• At least 5 years of experience in chemical engineering design, analysis, or system implementation.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, environmental science, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with complex fluid or mechanical production systems.
• Experience scaling products from design to high-volume manufacturing.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience with PCB manufacturing processes such as plating, etching, metallization, and waste treatment.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willingness to travel frequently, including extended periods for machine startup and buyoff.
• Ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted.
• Physical ability to perform tasks involving standing, climbing, bending, and other physical activities.
• Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or otherwise authorized under U.S. export regulations.
• Learn more about ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants requiring accommodations or wishing to see SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan can contact [e-mail].