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.

SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER, MECHANICAL SYSTEMS (STARLINK)

SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world’s largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to 2M+ users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system – thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink’s potential global impact. As we continue to upgrade and expand the constellation, we’re looking for best-in-class engineers to join the team.

On Starlink’s consumer product team, you’ll have complete ownership over the development of millions of consumer-facing devices that we ship directly to customers or install on planes, ships, or other mobile vehicles (Starlink dishes/user terminals, Wi-Fi routers, etc.).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with design engineers to gain an in-depth knowledge piece part, assembly, and/or sub-system design intent
• Support procurement team to strategically source parts matched with supplier competencies by reviewing and assessing supplier manufacturing processes and quality systems.
• Create and define supplier technical and quality requirements based on customer and program requirements and expectations for NPI and production phases
• Implement and monitor production part approval process (PPAP) with selected suppliers to enable rate production
• Assure supplier understanding of product and submission requirements
• Develop and approve process controls to control critical characteristics
• Recommend technical product improvements to reduce risk and potential defect opportunities
• Analyze supplier quality and delivery metrics to identify trends and pinpoint systemic performance gaps and root causes to drive supplier improvement plans
• Provide feedback as appropriate on manufacturing methods and technologies.
• Function as liaison between purchasing, engineering, manufacturing and suppliers to resolve supplier quality issues and to provide technical support
• Drive supplier corrective actions associated with any escapes or containments identified in SpaceX production or the SpaceX supply chain
• Demonstrate innovation, technical excellence, attention to detail, self-direction, and courage
• Drive for results and customer satisfaction
• Collaborate with teams, lead projects, and continuously drive improvement in the supply base

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or technical discipline
• 1+ years of manufacturing, mechanical, supply chain, or business management experience (including school projects, clubs, or internship)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master's degree in engineering, business, or supply chain
• 1+ years of work experience in manufacturing engineering, design engineering or other supply chain discipline
• 1+ years of experience with mechanical assemblies, materials or processes
• 1+ years of experience with optical systems
• Experience managing external supplier partners
• Proven track record of taking ownership, successfully negotiating preferred pricing and driving results
• Knowledge of supplier quality processes (production part approval process, advanced product quality planning, first article inspection reports, etc.)
• Knowledge of statistical techniques and methods, e.g., design of experiments, Six Sigma, etc.
• Experience with quality systems (ISO 9000/TS/AS9100/NADCAP)
• Disciplined approach to problem solving - 8D
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated and able to respond quickly to a fast-moving and ever-changing environment
• Exceptional analytical, problem solving, and organizational skills
• Effective written, verbal and presentation communication skills
• Conducts all activities with the highest level of integrity

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work extended hours, some nights and/or weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines
• Ability to travel - up to 50% work week travel

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:  Pay range:Supplier Development Engineer/Level I: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00/per yearSupplier Development Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00/per year 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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave 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.