SpaceX
Automation & Controls Engineer (Starlink)
About this role
SpaceX seeks an Automation & Controls Engineer for the Starlink team to design and implement manufacturing automation systems for high-volume satellite production. You'll work on robotics, PLC programming, machine vision, and control systems across the full project lifecycle in a fast-paced factory environment.
What you'll do
- Design, build, and implement automation projects including machine design, robotics, and manufacturing processes from concept to production
- Architect and debug PLC code for industrial control systems
- Develop and integrate machine vision systems for robotic guidance, quality control, and data collection
- Create electrical, pneumatic, and fluid schematics for control panels and systems
- Design user interfaces and monitoring systems to optimize factory performance and efficiency
- Ensure all automation systems meet ANSI, RIA15.06, and OSHA safety compliance standards
What they're looking for
- PLC programming (Beckhoff TwinCAT preferred)
- Industrial automation hardware (PLCs, robots, servo motion, machine vision)
- Electrical design and troubleshooting (motors, VFDs, safety circuits, schematics)
- Robotics programming (ABB Rapid experience preferred)
- Machine vision systems (Cognex Vision Pro, Halcon, OpenCV)
- HMI/SCADA and IoT protocols (MQTT, OPC-UA)
- Field bus networking (EtherCAT, PROFINET, Ethernet/IP)
- Statistical process control and manufacturing data analysis
Benefits
- Work on cutting-edge satellite production technology
- Collaborate with elite engineering teams
- Hands-on involvement in high-impact automation projects
- Opportunity to shape factory-of-the-future operations
- Professional growth across multiple automation disciplines
- Contributing to global broadband infrastructure
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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
- Describe your experience designing and commissioning automation systems in a manufacturing environment—what was the most complex project you've led?
- Walk us through your approach to programming a PLC-controlled system; what tools and methodologies do you prefer and why?