Automation & Controls Engineer

About the role

In this role, you will be integral to the development of electrical and control systems that are vital for the construction and launch of the Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket. Based at Cape Canaveral Space Force Base, your responsibilities will include designing, activating, and maintaining the hardware that underpins our orbital launch operations, ensuring that every aspect of the launch process is seamless and efficient.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Innovate and enhance control systems that are critical for successful launch operations, ensuring reliability and efficiency.
• Design, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC code that is well-structured, thoroughly documented, and reusable for future projects.
• Establish and oversee the controls network infrastructure while managing the interfaces for data acquisition systems to ensure accurate data flow.
• Maintain and upgrade the SCADA infrastructure at both production and launch sites, ensuring systems are up-to-date and functional.
• Create electrical control panel designs that comply with NFPA79, NEC, and UL508A standards, ensuring safety and reliability.
• Develop detailed schematics for electrical, pneumatic, and fluid systems, providing clear guidance for implementation.
• Supervise the assembly of electrical cabinets and oversee field wiring to ensure compliance with design specifications.
• Conduct activation testing and checkouts for newly installed equipment, ensuring all systems function as intended before launch.
• Generate technical procedures that guide technicians in building and commissioning control systems, facilitating smooth operations.
• Provide expert troubleshooting support for ground support equipment and tooling, resolving issues efficiently to minimize downtime.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in computer, electrical, or mechatronics engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline is required.
• At least one year of relevant experience with programmable controllers, data acquisition systems, or instrumentation power systems, which may include internships or project work.
• Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees to meet ITAR regulations.
• The ability to pass an Air Force background check is mandatory for this position.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, and the ability to travel up to 15% of the time is essential.
• Physical capability to perform tasks such as lifting, climbing, and bending is required due to the nature of the work.

Nice to have

• Practical experience with designing electronics test racks, conducting field measurements, or working with industrial assembly systems is advantageous.
• Familiarity with production machinery, including vision systems, laser distance sensors, and temperature controllers, is a plus.
• Previous experience in building and commissioning electro-mechanical systems and electrical panels will be beneficial.
• Proficiency in EPlan for electrical schematic CAD is desirable.
• Programming skills in languages such as Python, C#, SQL, or .NET will enhance your application.
• Experience with Siemens TIA Portal for PLC programming is a valuable asset.
• Familiarity with Ignition software for SCADA and HMI development will be advantageous.
• Knowledge of UL508A, NFPA 79, and NEC codes is a strong plus.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in PLC programming and SCADA/HMI systems, ensuring effective control and monitoring of operations.
• Expertise in electrical schematic design, facilitating clear and accurate representations of control systems.
• Experience with data acquisition systems that enable precise measurement and monitoring of various parameters.
• Knowledge of industrial control panels, ensuring safe and efficient operation of equipment.

Practical notes

This position demands physical mobility and the capability to thrive in a high-pressure environment. Applicants must be eligible for work that is restricted under ITAR regulations. SpaceX is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

About the company

Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.