Mechanical Engineer (Facilities)

As a Mechanical Engineer (Facilities) at our Starlink Production facility, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, integrity, and efficiency of our mechanical systems. You will be responsible for troubleshooting, evaluating, and improving various mechanical systems site-wide. Your expertise will drive continuous improvement initiatives, support sustainability goals, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Additionally, you will be tasked with designing upgrades and overseeing the installation of new assembly lines and processes, with the goal of creating a world-class facility that can support the mission of connecting people across the globe and enabling life beyond Earth. This position is based in Redmond, Washington.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and contribute to the design of HVAC systems (including package units, chillers, pumps, tanks, boilers, VRF systems and associated equipment) for offices, data centers, critical production facilities, cleanrooms, and other production areas.
• Design HVAC systems to meet ANSI/ASHRAE Standards 55, 62.1, and 90.1.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and computer-generated reports.
• Lead HVAC equipment startups, commissioning, and system integration activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to develop operating procedures, troubleshoot system issues, and provide technical support.
• Research and evaluate design proposals, specifications, and technical data to assess feasibility, cost, performance, and maintenance requirements.
• Specify HVAC components and direct equipment modifications to ensure compliance with design and performance specifications.
• Develop mechanical and controls designs using CAD software and drafting tools.
• Oversee the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems to ensure reliable performance and adherence to specifications.
• Investigate equipment failures and operational issues, diagnose root causes, and provide recommendations to maintenance teams.
• Conduct feasibility studies, testing, and performance analysis of HVAC equipment, components, and systems.
• Recommend and implement design modifications to resolve system malfunctions and improve reliability.
• Prepare cost estimates, bids, and contract documents for HVAC engineering and construction projects.
• Establish and maintain preventive maintenance programs, safety procedures, and service schedules for HVAC equipment.
• Apply principles of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer in the design of piping and ductwork systems.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or other engineering discipline
• 2+ years of professional experience in HVAC system design, operations, maintenance, controls, system monitoring, and/or data collection systems

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience designing and maintaining HVAC systems for cleanrooms and critical production facilities
• Experience performing HVAC load calculations
• Hands-on experience with the full lifecycle of HVAC systems, including design, sizing, specification, installation, startup, commissioning, operations, and maintenance of chillers, pumps, boilers, air handlers, heat pumps, HEPA filtration, and building automation systems
• Familiarity with HVAC and facility monitoring hardware and software
• Intermediate proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, or similar design software

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Physical ability to perform hands-on work in various environments, including heat, cold, rain, and tight quarters
• Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Ability to travel occasionally as required by project needs
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted

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 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. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.