Hardware Test Specialist, Failure Analysis

About the role

In this role, you will play a crucial part in the Starlink initiative by examining hardware malfunctions in both satellites and ground stations. Your responsibilities will include diagnosing problems related to printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) and electronic components, determining the underlying causes of these issues, and collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams to implement solutions that enhance product durability and reliability.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Analyze test system errors by scrutinizing logs and telemetry data to identify issues.
• Provide support for production, engineering, and qualification testing, which includes setting up equipment, conducting dry runs, and addressing real-time challenges.
• Investigate equipment failures and devise permanent solutions through software updates or hardware alterations.
• Oversee the implementation of new configurations in production settings.
• Construct or repair fixtures, tools, and shop aids to streamline manufacturing processes.
• Suggest modifications to design, processes, safety protocols, or floor layouts to enhance yield, performance, and reduce expenses.
• Conduct thorough failure analyses on satellite and gateway hardware, followed by the execution of corrective actions.
• schematics, testing instruments, and inspection techniques to explore PCBA and component failures.
• Collaborate closely with test engineers to ensure continuous feedback on improvements for testing equipment.
• Monitor yield rates and quality metrics, initiating actions to rectify non-conforming units.
• Execute environmental tests, including thermal, vibration, HALT/HASS, and thermal vacuum (TVAC) tests to validate product robustness.
• Offer technical support to production and field teams regarding failure resolution and process enhancements.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of all failure analysis results, testing outcomes, and corrective measures taken.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent certification is required.
• A minimum of one year of practical technical experience, or a bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline.
• Must be able to lift and transport items weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to perform repetitive assembly tasks, including standing, bending, pushing, pulling, and carrying.

Nice to have

• An associate or bachelor's degree in engineering, mathematics, or a scientific field is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with strong teamwork and organizational capabilities.
• Familiarity with technical documentation, engineering schematics, and drawings.
• Experience with electronic testing using multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and similar tools.
• Practical skills with basic mechanical tools such as calipers, screwdrivers, and wrenches.
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments with changing priorities.
• Experience with operating systems and tools such as Linux, Windows, git, SVN, JIRA, Altium, Mentor PCB, NX, Bash, and Python.

Skills & tools

• Expertise in PCBA failure analysis and troubleshooting.
• Proficient in using electronic testing equipment, including multimeters, oscilloscopes, and spectrum analyzers.
• Experience in conducting environmental testing, such as thermal, vibration, HALT/HASS, and TVAC.
• Ability to interpret schematics effectively.
• Competency in using basic mechanical hand tools.

Practical notes

• Compensation varies by level: Level 1 offers $32.00-$40.00/hour, Level 2 offers $36.00-$45.00/hour, and Level 3 offers $40.00-$50.00/hour.
• The final level and salary will be determined based on relevant job knowledge, skills, education, and experience.
• Additional compensation may include company stock, stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and access to the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Benefits package includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan, short and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and paid parental leave.
• Employees accrue three weeks of paid vacation, enjoy over ten paid holidays annually, and receive paid sick leave in accordance with Washington State law.
• Company-provided shuttles are available from select locations in Seattle to the Redmond office, operating Monday through Friday.
• ITAR compliance requires candidates to be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, or eligible to obtain the necessary authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

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.