Hardware Test Specialist, Failure Analysis

About the role

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. This role focuses specifically on Starlink hardware test and failure analysis to ensure satellite and ground station reliability. You will own the full diagnostic lifecycle for hardware anomalies, from initial test failure observation to permanent corrective action. The position grants you exposure to cutting edge R&D technology and some of the most complex applications of electrical engineering in the industry. You will directly contribute to the robustness and longevity of the Starlink network through systematic investigation and process improvement.

Key facts

What you'll do

Perform first level troubleshooting of test system errors by meticulously reading and interpreting test logs and telemetry data streams.

Support production, engineering, and qualification tests through equipment bring up, configuration, dry runs, and in situ troubleshooting activities as they arise.

Aid in efforts to uncover root-cause of equipment failures and develop permanent resolution on issues found during test operations via software updates, hardware changes, or procedural adjustments.

Execute and manage new configuration introduction into the production area while validating functionality and compliance with standards.

Design or repair assembly fixtures, tooling, and shop aids to improve manufacturing processes and reduce handling risks.

Identify and implement changes to design, process, safety, and floor layout to improve yield, performance, and cost efficiency across test operations.

Perform detailed failure analysis of satellite and gateway hardware, identifying root causes of failures and implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to improve product reliability and manufacturing processes through structured feedback loops.

Utilize schematics, test equipment, and inspection processes to conduct thorough failure investigations on PCBA and other electronic components.

Work closely with the respective test engineers to ensure a close feedback loop on improving test assets, methodologies, and measurement accuracy.

Monitor yield rates and quality metrics, driving corrective actions to address non-conforming products and systemic issues.

Conduct environmental testing including thermal, vibration, HALT/HASS, and TVAC to validate product robustness under extreme conditions.

Support production and field operations by providing technical guidance on failure resolution and process improvements in real time.

Maintain thorough documentation of failure analysis findings, test results, and corrective actions for traceability and knowledge retention.

Assist in the development and refinement of test procedures to align with evolving hardware designs and mission requirements.

Contribute to cross-functional initiatives aimed at enhancing test coverage, automation, and data analysis capabilities.

Requirements

Must hold a high school degree or equivalency certificate as a minimum educational baseline for this role.

Possess 1+ years of experience working in a hands-on technical position or hold a bachelor's degree in an engineering field to demonstrate foundational competence.

Be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed to meet production and test schedule demands.

Be capable of lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds as part of routine test and repair activities in the facility.

Perform repetitive assembly operations, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying as required to execute the functions of this position safely and effectively.

Read and interpret technical documentation, engineering drawings, and schematics with accuracy to ensure proper test execution.

Operate and utilize a variety of software environments, applications, and languages including Linux, Windows, Microsoft Office, git, SVN, JIRA, Altium, Mentor PCB, NX, Bash, and Python.

Demonstrate strong understanding of technical documentation, engineering drawings, and schematics to support failure analysis efforts.

Apply excellent communication, both written and verbal, to coordinate effectively with cross-functional team members.

Show strong organizational skills to manage multiple test activities and documentation deliverables in a high-paced environment.

Use hands-on experience with basic mechanical tools such as calipers, screwdrivers, wrenches, and other standard test equipment.

Employ experience performing electronic testing and inspection using measurement devices such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and related tools.

Display the ability to rapidly change roles and responsibilities while thriving in a high-paced, challenging work environment.

Nice to have

Associate or bachelor's degree in an engineering, math or science discipline is preferred for deeper analytical responsibilities.

Hands-on experience with electronic testing and inspection using advanced measurement devices is favored.

Experience working in a variety of software environments, applications, and languages including Linux, Windows, Microsoft Office, git, SVN, JIRA, Altium, Mentor PCB, NX, Bash, and Python is preferred.

Practical notes

This role requires willingness to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as operational needs dictate.

Physical capability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds is required for standard job functions.

The position involves repetitive assembly operations and physical movements such as standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying.

Work hours and specific schedules will be defined by operational requirements at the Redmond, WA location.