Sr. Radiation Effects Engineer

About the role

In this pivotal position, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the performance of avionics hardware across SpaceX's diverse fleet, which includes the Starship, Falcon, Dragon, and the Lunar Human Landing System. Your primary responsibility will be to conduct radiation analysis and testing, ensuring that these systems are reliable for a variety of missions, from providing broadband satellite internet to facilitating human exploration of the Moon and Mars.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Work closely with system and design engineers to deliver comprehensive radiation analysis, modeling, and effective mitigation strategies tailored to specific projects.
• Develop and manage databases and applications that store and analyze radiation test data, ensuring accessibility and accuracy.
• Collaborate with supply chain and reliability teams to streamline access to test data and enhance the preferred component lists based on performance metrics.
• Supervise Product Change Notices (PCNs) to confirm the radiation qualification status of components and systems.
• Establish and enforce standards for radiation testing of flight Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBAs) and components.
• Engage with software, manufacturing, and circuit design teams to maximize test coverage and ensure comprehensive evaluation of hardware.
• Define procurement specifications for components while ensuring compliance with radiation safety regulations and standards.
• Lead efforts to document and report on radiation testing outcomes, providing insights and recommendations for future designs.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to address and resolve any radiation-related issues that may arise during the design and testing phases.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in radiation effects research and apply this knowledge to improve testing methodologies and strategies.
• Mentor junior engineers and interns in radiation analysis techniques and best practices, fostering a culture of learning and development within the team.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of processes related to radiation testing and analysis, ensuring alignment with industry best practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline is required, providing a solid foundation for the technical aspects of the role.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in radiation effects is essential, demonstrating a deep understanding of the field.
• Proven experience in radiation modeling, analysis, and testing methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and make informed decisions.
• Familiarity with avionics hardware, including integrated circuits, sensors, and PCBAs, is crucial for effective performance in this role.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in full stack web development, particularly with Python, SQL, JavaScript, and HTML, to enhance data management capabilities.
• Experience in conducting single event effects risk calculations to assess potential vulnerabilities in hardware.
• Ability to write scripts for controlling test hardware, improving efficiency in testing processes.
• A solid understanding of statistics and mathematics, which is beneficial for data analysis and interpretation.
• Previous experience in component reliability or engineering, contributing to a well-rounded skill set.
• Familiarity with radiation dose safety training, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and regulations.

Skills & tools

• Python
• SQL
• JavaScript
• HTML
• Avionics hardware analysis
• Radiation modeling and testing

Practical notes

• The salary for this position ranges from $130,000 to $180,000 annually, reflecting the expertise and experience required.
• Compensation packages may include stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and participation in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Comprehensive benefits are offered, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, life insurance, disability insurance, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and more than ten paid holidays each year.
• Be prepared for extended hours and potential weekend work during critical phases of project development.
• Due to ITAR regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees to be eligible for this role.
• SpaceX is committed to diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.