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Manager, Equipment and Automation Engineering (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX

Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

As the Manager of Equipment and Automation Engineering, you will lead a team responsible for designing, developing, and implementing advanced automation systems and manufacturing equipment to support high-volume solar cell production. You will drive innovation in equipment reliability, throughput, and scalability while ensuring safety and quality standards are met. This position demands a hands-on leader passionate about rapid iteration and problem-solving in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Lead a team of multi-disciplinary engineers spanning the design, procurement, installation, and optimization of solar cell manufacturing equipment and automation
Collaborate with production, process engineering, and supply chain teams to identify equipment needs and develop solutions that improve yield, reduce cycle times, and minimize downtime in satellite manufacturing lines.
Oversee the full lifecycle of equipment projects, from concept through commissioning, including budgeting, vendor management, and root-cause analysis for failures.
Implement data-driven improvements using tools like PLC programming, SCADA systems, and IoT sensors to enable predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring.
Ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., ISO, SEMI) and SpaceX safety protocols, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.
Mentor and develop team members, conduct performance reviews, and hire top talent to build a high-performing engineering group.
Travel as needed (up to 20%) internationally

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline
5+ years of experience in equipment engineering or automation, with at least 2+ years in a project leadership or management role
Experience with automation projects in a high-volume manufacturing environment (e.g., semiconductors, automotive, or aerospace)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant engineering discipline
Experience in the aerospace or satellite manufacturing industry
Experience with the equipment and support systems used to manufacture solar cells
Strong knowledge of automation technologies, including robotics (e.g., FANUC, ABB), motion control systems, and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
Experience with equipment qualification, validation, and troubleshooting in cleanroom or controlled environments
Proficiency in programming for automation (e.g., Structured Text, Ladder Logic, C++) and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW)
Demonstrated ability to manage budgets exceeding $10M and leading multidisciplinary teams in agile development cycles
Excellent communication skills, with experience presenting technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
Passion for space exploration and alignment with SpaceX's mission to make life multi-planetary

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be willing to work extended hours 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.

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About 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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