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Automation & Controls Specialist, PCB Manufacturing (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

SpaceX is becoming a world leader in electronics manufacturing in the heart of Texas. The Automation & Controls Specialist for the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) factory will be responsible for troubleshooting complex controls issues within existing SpaceX critical assets, with the focus on adding long-term repairs that increase the overall reliability of production systems, rather than implementing quick-fix solutions. Additionally, the Automation & Controls Specialist will be responsible for assisting in the design of new controls components and integrating with vendor-provided equipment. The Automation & Controls Specialist makes data-driven decisions and is skilled in both hands-on electrical and controls software. This includes servicing and building industrial control panels, robotic and electromechanical controls systems, and PLC, HMI, and SCADA development.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Integrate vendor/OEM equipment into centralized SCADA software for advanced line control
  • Maximize the uptime of all automation assets on our advanced manufacturing lines
  • Develop data analysis tools to root-cause the largest downtime sources and propose long-term fixes
  • Spec and procure required components, sensors, and hardware needed for implementing controls solutions
  • Wire, commission, and validate electromechanical and pneumatic control systems
  • Design and commission basic PLC and HMI software applications, and additions to existing systems
  • Interpret and develop logic for Beckhoff TwinCAT, Siemens TIA, and Allen-Bradley RS Logix
  • Read, understand, and utilize system-level schematics (mechanical/electrical/pneumatic/hydraulic)
  • Support production devices (HMIs, VM's, Thin Clients, IoT devices)

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate and 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing and production environment; OR bachelor's degree in an engineering, math, or science discipline
  • 2+ years of experience working with mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and/or hydraulic systems

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering, math, or science discipline
  • Demonstrated hands-on skill in fault finding, mechanical system troubleshooting, and solid problem resolution skills
  • Highly motivated with strong interpersonal skills; a team player, yet able to work independently when necessary
  • Exceptional problem solving and communication skills, creative, and has strong organizational skills as well as documentation
  • Strong, working knowledge of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety), NFPA 79 & UL508A codes
  • PLC and HMI programming experience or familiarization using ladder logic and structured text (Beckhoff TwinCAT, Siemens TIA, and Allen-Bradley RS Logix)
  • Mechanical equipment design/build experience
  • Experience with electrical control panel design, building, and wiring
  • Electrical schematic drawing/updates
  • Excellent skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Detail oriented, organized, and able to demonstrate a high sense of urgency
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics and drawings
  • Analytical skills - skilled at gathering and analyzing information to understand complex situations and solve problems
  • Ability to maintain a safe and clean working environment while adhering to company policies, quality policies, and industry standards

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be available to work one of the following shifts (B shift preferred)
    • A-Shift: 5 AM - 5 PM (Sunday - Tuesday and every other Wednesday)
    • B-Shift: 5 AM - 5 PM (Thursday - Saturday and every other Wednesday)
    • C-Shift: 5 PM - 5 AM (Sunday - Tuesday and every other Wednesday)
    • D-Shift: 5 PM - 5 AM (Thursday - Saturday and every other Wednesday)
  • Must be able to gain forklift certification
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position
  • Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime and weekends as needed

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. Section 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. Section 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 reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

About SpaceX

SpaceX

SpaceX is one of the most influential aerospace companies in the world, transforming space launch, satellite communications, and deep-space transportation. Founded by Elon Musk, SpaceX designs and manufactures advanced rockets and spacecraft, including Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship, alongside the Dragon spacecraft and the Starlink satellite internet constellation. The company plays a major role in U.S. space access, national security launch capabilities, and commercial space infrastructure.

For job seekers, SpaceX offers opportunities across some of the most demanding engineering disciplines in the industry, including aerospace engineering, propulsion, software development, avionics, manufacturing, robotics, materials science, and mission operations. The company is especially attractive to engineers, technicians, and builders who want to work in a high-intensity environment focused on rapid iteration, vertical integration, and hands-on hardware development at scale.

Unlike traditional aerospace contractors that rely heavily on long development cycles, SpaceX operates with a fast-paced, vertically integrated engineering culture where teams design, build, test, and fly systems in rapid succession. Employees often work directly on flight hardware and production systems, contributing to programs that routinely push the boundaries of reusability, launch frequency, and cost reduction in space access.

As global demand for satellite communications, space infrastructure, and national security launch services continues to grow, SpaceX remains one of the most important employers in aerospace and defense-adjacent technology. For professionals seeking a highly challenging, mission-driven career at the cutting edge of spaceflight and advanced engineering, SpaceX stands out as one of the most ambitious and impactful companies in the world.

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