SpaceX
Automation & Controls Engineer, Solar (Starlink)
About this role
SpaceX seeks an Automation & Controls Engineer to develop next-generation Starlink solar array production systems. You'll design and implement manufacturing automation, PLC control systems, and robotics solutions while ensuring safety compliance and operational efficiency.
What you'll do
- Design and commission automation and controls systems for solar array manufacturing from concept through production deployment
- Architect and debug PLC code for industrial machinery and process control
- Implement machine vision systems for robotic guidance, quality assurance, and performance monitoring
- Design electrical schematics, pneumatic circuits, and control panels with safety compliance
- Create user interfaces and monitoring systems to optimize factory efficiency and troubleshoot issues
- Ensure manufacturing systems meet ANSI, RIA, and OSHA safety standards
What they're looking for
- PLC programming (Beckhoff TwinCAT preferred)
- Industrial automation hardware (PLCs, robots, servo motion, machine vision, pneumatics)
- Electrical design and troubleshooting (motors, VFDs, circuit protection, safety systems)
- Fieldbus networking protocols (EtherCAT, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus)
- Robotics programming and commissioning
- HMI/SCADA and industrial vision systems
- Electrical schematic design and standards compliance (NEC, NFPA, UL508A)
- Statistical process control and manufacturing data analysis
Benefits
- Competitive base salary with performance-based adjustments
- Long-term incentive opportunities
- Mission-critical work on next-generation satellite technology
- Cross-disciplinary team collaboration
- Opportunity to work on SpaceX's Starlink constellation
- Fast-paced, innovative manufacturing environment
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SpaceX
SpaceX develops advanced spacecraft and satellite systems, including the Starshield government satellite constellation and Starfall re-entry cargo capsule for global delivery. The company is hiring engineers in avionics integration, software test automation, mechanical design, and hardware reliability to validate flight-critical systems and ensure mission success.
- Website
- spacex.com
Likely interview questions
- Walk us through a complex PLC program you've written—what challenges did you encounter and how did you solve them?
- Describe your experience implementing machine vision systems for quality control or robotic guidance in a manufacturing setting.