Test Technician, Silicon Assembly (Starlink)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP in Bastrop, Texas is seeking an experienced technician to perform wafer-level probing and testing as part of the Starlink project. Ideal candidates have a background in manufacturing and detailed experience with RF testing equipment.

The successful applicant will work in a dynamic environment focused on quality and reliability. Responsibilities include testing in cleanroom conditions and performing routine equipment maintenance.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of industrial experience or relevant bachelor's degree.
• Experience in RF package testing or wafer probing preferred.
• Ability to perform rework on microminiature electronic components.

Responsibilities

• Perform wafer-level probing and testing with advanced equipment.
• Conduct equipment maintenance to ensure accurate measurements.
• Collaborate to meet daily test volumes.

Skills

Manual dexterity

RF test equipment proficiency

Electrical theory knowledge

Data logging software proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in engineering, math or science

Tools

Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs)

Parametric analyzers

Automated Wafer Probing Systems

Spectrum analyzers

Job description

Overview

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. One of the most ambitious missions that SpaceX has undertaken to date, the Starlink satellite constellation, is our solution to providing reliable internet to the entire world. In true SpaceX fashion, Starlink is taking the next step in vertical integration by bringing integrated circuit packaging and assembly in-house for development and manufacturing. You will work closely with IC packaging engineers, test engineers, equipment manufacturers and leadership. The success of Starlink depends on the quality, reliability, cost, manufacturability, throughput, and security of the products that you deliver. If you seek a fast‑paced, dynamic environment; if you thrive on solving difficult problems where resolutions have high impact; and if you love the challenge of building something from scratch, then this role will be an ideal next career step.

Responsibilities

• Perform wafer‑level probing and testing using DC/RF probe stations, parametric analyzers, and vector network analyzers (VNAs) to measure I‑V characteristics, capacitance, RF insertion loss, and return loss on individual dies
• Set up and operate RF package test stations, including test sockets, handlers, and vector network analyzers (VNAs), to execute parametric, functional, and high‑frequency tests such as S‑parameter sweeps, gain measurements, and noise figure evaluations
• Load and unload packaged devices into automated test equipment (ATE), following recipes to run sort tests, binning, and data collection for yield tracking and performance grading
• Perform basic inspections of test results using software interfaces to identify outliers or failures, generating simple defect reports and flagging issues for engineering review
• Conduct routine equipment maintenance, such as calibrating RF cables, cleaning fixtures, and verifying probe contacts, to ensure accurate measurements and minimal downtime
• Log test data, including throughput metrics and SPC charts, using software to support production reporting and defect trend analysis
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to achieve daily test volumes, and assist in simple setup changes or fixture preparations
• Adhere to cleanroom protocols, ESD safeguards, and safety standards during handling of sensitive RF components

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 6+ years of professional experience in a hands‑on manufacturing environment OR bachelor's degree in an engineering, math or science discipline

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering, math or science discipline
• 3+ years of experience in wafer probing or RF package testing within a semiconductor manufacturing or test environment
• Experience with Automated Wafer Probing Systems and Backend Assembled Package Testers
• Knowledge of electrical theory including Digital, Analog, and RF Circuitry
• Proficiency with RF test equipment, including VNAs, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, along with understanding of semiconductor device physics and RF parameters
• Proficiency with test software and data logging tools (e.g. Excel, JMP)
• Ability to fabricate and repair cable harnesses including soldering, crimping, assembling connectors for bench testing and debugging and failure analysis; J-STD-001 Certification is a plus
• Excellent manual dexterity and the ability to perform rework on microminiature electronic components under a microscope

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to work all shifts and be willing to work overtime and/or weekends as needed
• Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position
• Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
• 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.

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 affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process, should contact [e-mail].