Mechanical Design Engineer, Consumer Hardware

About the role

SpaceX is on a mission to broaden the accessibility of the Starlink broadband network by designing and producing high-volume consumer hardware for users worldwide. This position is dedicated to overseeing the entire development process of consumer devices, from the initial design phase to the establishment of automated manufacturing lines that will produce these devices at scale.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee the complete lifecycle of consumer hardware, managing everything from initial design concepts to mass production and public launch.
• Establish design specifications and work collaboratively on system-level requirements to ensure product functionality and performance.
• Perform rigorous testing and implement iterative enhancements to guarantee product reliability across various operational environments.
• Design and develop production lines, which includes creating robot end effectors, advancing process development, programming automation, and establishing control systems.
• Enhance manufacturing processes to ensure high-rate, high-yield, and dependable output.
• Collaborate with supply chain teams and internal stakeholders to effectively balance cost, quality, and production efficiency.
• Analyze and troubleshoot production issues, implementing solutions to streamline operations.
• Document design processes and maintain detailed records of modifications and improvements throughout the project lifecycle.
• Engage in cross-functional teamwork, providing mechanical insights to support electrical and software engineering teams.
• Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in consumer hardware design and manufacturing technologies.
• Participate in design reviews and provide constructive feedback to peers to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Mentor junior engineers and interns, sharing knowledge and best practices in mechanical design and production processes.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline is required.
• Proficiency in CAD and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software is essential.
• At least one year of relevant professional experience or internship in mechanical or electromechanical design, testing, or manufacturing is necessary.
• Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet project timelines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and creatively.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.

Nice to have

• A master's degree in engineering or a related technical field is preferred.
• Over three years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis is advantageous.
• Two or more years of hands-on experience with complex mechanical systems, ideally in a leadership role, is a plus.
• Familiarity with 3D CAD software, particularly NX, is beneficial.
• A solid understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), structural analysis, and failure modes is desirable.
• Experience in taking complex assemblies from the design phase through to high-volume production is a significant advantage.
• Knowledge of design for manufacturability principles and experience with industrial equipment such as injection molding machines, die casting, motion systems, and sensors is a plus.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in CAD software (NX preferred)
• Experienced in Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Knowledgeable in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Familiar with automation and robotics technologies
• Skilled in manufacturing process design and optimization

Practical notes

• ITAR compliance: To comply with U.S. government export regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.
• SpaceX is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide reasonable accommodations for the application process upon request.

Join SpaceX and be part of a team that is revolutionizing the way the world connects to the internet through innovative consumer hardware solutions. Your contributions will directly impact the accessibility of broadband services globally, making a difference in the lives of countless individuals.

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.