Electrical Test Engineer, PCB

About the role

Become a vital member of the Starlink team, where you will contribute to the development and enhancement of production processes for printed circuit boards (PCBs) that are integral to the largest satellite network in the world. This position involves overseeing projects from the initial design phase and factory layout to the installation of equipment, scaling up production, and continuous process improvement. Your efforts will have a direct impact on consumer devices that are distributed to homes, recreational vehicles, aircraft, and marine vessels around the globe.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop, implement, and sustain manufacturing processes, equipment, and facilities dedicated to PCB production, which includes systems for automatic optical inspection, bed-of-nails testing, and flying probe testing.
• first-principles and physics-based methodologies to analyze production machinery effectively.
• Design and carry out experiments to ensure processes are stable and repeatable, preparing them for handoff to production teams.
• Conduct defect characterization and root cause analysis, formulating action plans to enhance production yields.
• Create comprehensive project plans, budgets, and cost-benefit analyses for new equipment acquisitions or process modifications.
• Direct machine activation and testing efforts alongside a small team of engineers and technicians, ensuring optimal performance.
• Address urgent manufacturing challenges, including issues related to part quality, machine reliability, and process inconsistencies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and implement improvements in PCB production workflows.
• Document processes and maintain accurate records to ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices.
• Train production staff on new processes and equipment, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in PCB manufacturing technology to drive innovation within the team.
• Participate in regular meetings to report on project status, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in an engineering field is mandatory.
• A minimum of 1 year of practical experience in a manufacturing setting is required.
• Proficiency in interpreting technical drawings and schematics.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems using first-principles thinking, especially under time constraints and with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively collaborate with team members and stakeholders.
• Experience in maintaining and troubleshooting electrical test equipment, including tasks like component replacement and rework.
• Familiarity with high-volume electronics manufacturing processes and standards.
• Knowledge of IPC manufacturing standards is advantageous.
• Proven experience in diagnosing PCB failure modes and performing root cause analysis.
• Understanding of quality assurance tools such as Design of Experiments (DOE), statistical process control, and PFMEA.

Nice to have

• Experience in transitioning products from research and development stages to full-scale production.
• Hands-on experience in designing, qualifying, and implementing electrical test fixtures.
• A background in high-volume electronics manufacturing, particularly in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with corrective action methodologies and quality improvement processes.
• Strong interpersonal skills that facilitate effective teamwork and collaboration.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in using automatic optical inspection systems, bed-of-nails testers, and flying probe testers.
• Familiar with statistical process control methodologies and Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Experienced in root cause analysis and PFMEA frameworks to enhance quality and efficiency in manufacturing processes.

Practical notes

• Candidates must be U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, or otherwise eligible to obtain the necessary ITAR authorization from the U.S. Department of State.
• The role may require travel to other SpaceX facilities or vendor locations, including potential international trips for extended durations.
• Physical demands of the job include the ability to lift up to 25 pounds unassisted and perform tasks that involve standing, climbing, bending, and similar physical activities.
• For requests related to accommodations or to access SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan, please reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.