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.

AVIONICS TEST SPECIALIST (STARSHIP)

As a Starship Avionics Test Specialist, you will have the unique opportunity to be part of a cross-functional team that bridges the gap between vehicle analysis, design, production and vehicle operations.

The Specialist role is responsible for supporting vehicles and test assets that represent vehicle systems as the they are built, tested, launched, recovered and re-launched. This includes test asset design and usage, repair of electrical components, troubleshooting of avionics subsystems including power distribution, vehicle network, onboard sensors, actuators, compute, RF, and video.

RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• Establish safety protocols and testing procedures, including hands-on work to operate and troubleshoot high pressure systems
• Diagnose test system failures, and make appropriate test system repairs
• Work with engineers to design test setups for validating avionics hardware
• Design and assemble test racks to support production
• Provide technical support and assist in the maintenance of all production equipment; work to monitor and optimize product flow through the factory
• Program, load, and operate automated equipment
• Work with vendors as needed to manage equipment repairs
• Design 3D print custom fixtures and tooling to support production
• Read, interpret, and work from assembly and operating procedures, schematic diagrams, bills of materials, mechanical drawings, and alternate parts lists
• Resolve production blockers, and ensure product quality and delivery timelines
• Respond to production related non-conformances (deviation and non-deviation); drive to root cause, and disposition according to manufacturing policies
• Aid in efforts to uncover and document root-cause of electrical failures
• Identify continuous improvement opportunities for yield, quality, cost control; drive lean projects to eliminate waste
• Incorporate best practices for ESD compliance, grounding, and job hazard analysis
• Support with maintenance/spares inventory and organization

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline or 2+ years of electronics experience troubleshooting test systems and/or avionics hardware
• 2+ years of manufacturing experience using electronics equipment and basic mechanical and/or electronics hand tools

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and teamwork skills
• Excellent attention to detail with outstanding work efficiency and accuracy
• Basic understanding of pressure sensors, and their applications
• Familiarity with pressure tubing, and its application
• Experience working with torque tools, fittings, and pressure regulators
• Ability to design and document test systems and wiring diagrams
• Ability to design basic mechanical enclosures using Protocase Designer, UG/NX, or equivalent applications
• Ability to set up and run functional and environmental tests, and to identify failures and report results
• Ability to reliably solder/desolder QFN/leadless components, trace cutting, component stacking, hot air and hot plate tool usage
• Ability to work with all operating systems; Unix, Linux, and Windows
• Knowledge of Ohm's Law, power supplies, digital logic, ADC/DAC circuits, op amps, semiconductors, and communications protocols
• Knowledge of DAQ systems along with the various sensors and measurement tools associated
• Knowledge of RF specific test equipment and proper usage
• Experience in harness design and construction with ability to build and repair and knowledge of procedures, tools, connectors, wire/cable, and parts used
• Experience developing software tools and/or programs using Python, SQL, C++, LabVIEW, and/or other languages
• Experience with Microsoft Suite
• Experience with Atlassian tools including SVN, Confluence, and JIRA
• Experience with Altium Designer/Viewer to view schematics and PCBA layouts to help with troubleshooting PCBAs
• Experience with IPC/WHMA-A-620, Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness
• Experience with IPC 7711/21, Rework, Modification, and Repair of Electronic Assemblies

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to work 2nd shift hours, overtime, and weekends as needed
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. unassisted
• Repetitive assembly operations, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position
• Able to travel for business trips, up to 5%, to different launch sites
• Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:                      

Pay range:         

Level 1: $30.00 - $38.00/hour   Level 2: $34.00 - $43.00/hour   Level 3: $38.00 - $48.00/hour  

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• 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. Learn more about the ITAR here.  

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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.