Ground Network Specialist
Job description
About the role
SpaceX is seeking a dedicated Ground Network Specialist to enhance and maintain the global ground station network that supports Starshield, the company's satellite initiative focused on government applications utilizing Starlink technology. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the reliability of ground stations, traveling to various locations around the globe, and managing a laboratory in Hawthorne where you will create tailored hardware solutions. This position is part of a small, dynamic team within a rapidly expanding program, allowing you to have a significant impact on the future of the network.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Install, diagnose, and repair ground equipment associated with the Starshield program while collaborating closely with a team of engineers and specialists.
- Travel both domestically and internationally to address hardware issues that may disrupt user services.
- Detect and rectify faults in fiber optic circuits and antenna systems, ensuring they are fully operational.
- Troubleshoot commercial networking and routing devices at various ground locations.
- Create and update training materials to facilitate ongoing team development and improvement.
- Oversee the operations of the Hawthorne laboratory, managing inventory, tools, and ground support testing equipment.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement innovative solutions for ground station challenges.
- Participate in the development of best practices for equipment maintenance and operational procedures.
- Conduct regular inspections and preventive maintenance on ground equipment to ensure optimal performance.
- Document all repairs and maintenance activities thoroughly to maintain accurate records.
- Assist in the training of new team members, sharing knowledge and expertise to enhance team capabilities.
- Engage in continuous learning to stay updated on the latest technologies and industry trends relevant to ground station operations.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- A minimum of two years of experience as a mechanic or technician in a field services role, such as telecommunications or Internet Service Provider (ISP).
- Willingness to travel up to 75% of the time to various U.S. and international gateway locations.
- Physical capability to lift items weighing up to 50 lbs, work at heights, and perform tasks that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting, climbing, and working in confined spaces.
- Ability to distinguish colors and perform tasks requiring fine motor skills.
- Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q security clearance.
Nice to have
- A bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline is preferred.
- Over three years of experience troubleshooting electronics, communication systems, or avionics hardware.
- Proven ability to work independently and produce high-quality results.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to thorough documentation practices.
- Skills in mentorship and collaboration with team members.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical and mechanical drawings and schematics.
- Experience in constructing IT and network racks, including uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), power distribution units (PDUs), cable management, servers, and network devices.
- Familiarity with the safe operation of equipment such as articulating boom lifts, forklifts, and scissor lifts.
- Knowledge of low voltage AC/DC power distribution, Ohm's Law, and the proper use of multimeters and power supplies.
- An active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance is a plus.
Skills & tools
- Expertise in diagnosing and repairing fiber optic circuits.
- Maintenance of antenna hardware.
- Proficient in commercial network and routing equipment.
- Skilled in IT rack assembly, including UPS, PDUs, servers, and network devices.
- Ability to interpret electrical and mechanical schematics.
- Experience with articulating boom lifts, forklifts, and scissor lifts.
Practical notes
- Candidates who possess an active security clearance may have the opportunity to work on sensitive SpaceX missions and will be subject to pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing.
- Compensation range: Level 1 positions offer $33-$39 per hour, Level 2 positions range from $37-$44 per hour, while details for Level 3 compensation are in the listing.
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.