Job Information
Space Exploration Technologies Corp. Mechanical Engineer (Payload) in Redmond, Washington
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. MECHANICAL ENGINEER (PAYLOAD) At SpaceX we're leveraging our 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 antennae 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 and are looking for best-in-class engineers to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe. As a Starlink Mechanical Engineer on the Payload team, you will work to solve the complex structural, thermal and mechanical problems at the heart of Starlink's service. You will own complex flight hardware and will interact regularly with senior leadership during critical design phases, ushering in the next era of internet and delivering internet to those that need it most. You will work cross functionally with multiple disciplines such as Electrical Engineering, RF Engineers and others to solve first principle engineering problems. RESPONSIBILITIES: Own hardware from conceptual design through high volume production and on-orbit operation for the Starlink constellation Develop design criteria, collaborate on requirements, and drive system-level optimization Rapidly iterate on designs and analysis to inform high level systems trades and steer overall product direction Work on proactive projects and design architecture to support current and next-generation payloads Collaborate with RF and Electrical Engineers on complex physics problems Drive holistic DFM to create elegant designs Establish an efficient product lifecycle starting in the supply chain all the way through final integration that balances cost, complexity, and quality; work closely with partner teams to design and realize an efficient in-house production line Perform environmental and performance testing on hardware to validate analysis and demonstrate compliance to design criteria Demonstrate extreme ownership of product outcomes at every stage of development and production BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline Experience with CAD and FEA software packages 1+ years of professional experience with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing (internship experience is applicable) PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: Master's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design, structural analysis, thermal analysis, and/or failure modes of complex mechanical systems 2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team lead Proficient in 3D CAD (NX preferred) Solid understanding and application of GD&T Prior ownership of a complex component or assembly from initial design through high-volume production ramp Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills Knowledge of and experience in selecting materials, manufacturing methods, and surface treatments Proficiency in one or more programming languages Experience working with PCB designers and exposure to PCB layout and PCBA mechanical design Experience with design of experiments, statistical process control, and process qualification ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to work long hours and weeke