Automation & Controls Specialist (Starship)

About the role

This position supports the Starship program by designing and deploying infrastructure for vehicle manufacturing and testing. You will work within the production fluids team to create reliable systems that enable high-rate vehicle production. The role requires ownership of the full lifecycle of automation initiatives, ensuring that technical solutions align with manufacturing objectives and safety protocols. You are responsible for translating operational needs into functional control systems that drive efficiency and reliability on the production floor. This position demands a proactive approach to problem solving and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. You will serve as a critical link between engineering design and shop floor execution, ensuring that automated systems perform as intended. Success in this role is measured by the delivery of robust control systems that support quality, safety, and production goals.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Manage automation and controls projects from initial design and trades through commissioning and staff training, ensuring alignment with production timelines.
• Define project specifications and deliverables in collaboration with internal and external design engineers to ensure technical accuracy and feasibility.
• Build and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA applications for production environments, validating functionality against operational requirements.
• Modify and correct pneumatic and electrical schematics using tools like EPLAN, maintaining up-to-date documentation for future reference.
• Design industrial electrical control panels that meet NFPA79, NEC, and UL508A standards, ensuring compliance and safety in all installations.
• Document processes through technical drawings and written instructions to support maintenance, troubleshooting, and knowledge transfer.
• Audit manufacturing workflows to identify safety improvements and automation opportunities, recommending actionable solutions to leadership.
• Develop statements of work and manage contractor tasks to support production schedules, ensuring timely execution of project goals.
• Use JIRA to organize and track weekly project progress, providing transparency and accountability for all stakeholders.
• Support the integration of new equipment into existing production lines, minimizing downtime and optimizing system performance.
• Perform root cause analysis on system failures and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across the production fluids team.
• Liaise with cross-functional teams to coordinate system upgrades, ensuring that changes are communicated and implemented effectively.
• Test and validate control system logic under various operating conditions to confirm reliability and safety before full deployment.
• Maintain current knowledge of industry standards and emerging technologies to recommend enhancements to automation strategy.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 3+ years of hands-on experience in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automation and controls systems.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions, at heights, or in confined spaces as required by operational needs.
• Availability for extended hours, weekends, and 24/7 on-call emergency support to address critical production issues.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs unassisted and work in hazardous environments while wearing required PPE to ensure personal safety.
• Valid driver license to operate vehicles on-site and transport equipment as necessary for job duties.
• Must meet ITAR requirements: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to comply with export control regulations.

Nice to have

• 5+ years of manufacturing experience in high-volume environments to bring advanced operational insights.
• 2+ years of experience programming and troubleshooting 6-axis and Cartesian robots for automation applications.
• Proficiency in EPlan for electrical CAD to streamline design and documentation processes.
• Experience with C#, .NET, Python, or SQL to support system integration and data management tasks.
• Background in PLC, HMI, and SCADA programming to enhance system development capabilities.
• Familiarity with field bus networks, serial communication, and Ethernet to optimize system connectivity.
• Experience building electrical control panels and electro-mechanical systems to support installation and maintenance.
• Knowledge of NEC, NFPA 79, and UL508A codes to ensure regulatory compliance in all projects.
• Ability to troubleshoot advanced electrical circuits, motors, starters, and electronic systems to resolve complex issues.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite to prepare reports, presentations, and procedural documentation.

Skills & tools

• PLC, HMI, SCADA
• EPLAN
• JIRA
• Industrial electrical standards (NEC, NFPA 79, UL508A)
• Robotics (6-axis/Cartesian)
• Programming (C#, .NET, Python, SQL)

Practical notes

• This role requires compliance with U.S. export control regulations (ITAR).
• SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation during the hiring process may contact EEOCompliance@spacex.com.