SCADA & Controls Engineer, Infrastructure & Utility
Job description
About the role
Become a vital member of the Infrastructure Engineering team at SpaceX, where you will be responsible for overseeing the automation and control systems that support the production and launch of the Starship at our Starbase facility in Texas. Your expertise will ensure that critical utility systems, including power, HVAC, and fluid management, operate reliably to support high-frequency flight operations. This role is essential in maintaining the efficiency and safety of our infrastructure as we push the boundaries of space exploration.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Design, implement, and maintain SCADA, PLC, and HMI systems tailored for utility and ground infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
- Utilize software tools such as EPLAN and AutoCAD to create and update electrical and pneumatic schematics, facilitating accurate documentation and system design.
- Develop industrial control panels that meet rigorous standards, including NFPA 79, NEC, and UL 508A, ensuring compliance and safety in all engineering practices.
- Ensure that power system controls conform to industry standards such as NFPA 70, 70B, 70E, NESC, and IEEE, maintaining the highest levels of operational integrity.
- Lead automation projects from conception through to commissioning, including training staff on new systems and processes to ensure smooth transitions.
- Conduct audits of manufacturing processes to pinpoint areas for safety enhancements and efficiency improvements, driving continuous operational excellence.
- Prepare detailed statements of work and collaborate with contractors to ensure that production timelines are met without compromising quality.
- Provide mentorship to engineering and technical staff, guiding them in project management and prioritization to foster professional growth within the team.
- Offer 24/7 on-call support for urgent system troubleshooting, ensuring that any issues are resolved promptly to minimize downtime.
Requirements
- A Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, or a closely related engineering discipline is required.
- At least 1 year of professional or academic experience in automation and control systems is necessary to qualify for this role.
- Must be physically capable of performing work in various weather conditions, including at heights or in confined spaces.
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs without assistance and willingness to work extended hours or weekends when necessary.
- A valid driver's license is required for this position.
- Candidates must meet ITAR requirements, including being a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Nice to have
- Over 3 years of professional experience in a similar role is preferred, showcasing a depth of knowledge in the field.
- An active Professional Engineering (PE) license or a commitment to obtaining one is a significant advantage.
- Familiarity with Ignition software for HMI development will be beneficial for this position.
- Experience with control hardware from manufacturers such as Siemens, Allen Bradley, or SEL is desirable.
- Understanding of IEC-61131 programming and IT/OT network design will enhance your application.
- Knowledge of industrial communication protocols, including Modbus, DNP3, IEEE C37.115, and IEEE C37.111, is a plus.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C#, .NET, or SQL will be advantageous.
Skills & tools
- Proficient in SCADA, PLC, and HMI systems
- Experienced with EPLAN and AutoCAD for schematic design
- Knowledgeable in NFPA, NEC, NESC, and IEEE standards
- Familiar with industrial networking and communication protocols
Practical notes
- This position involves working in potentially hazardous environments, and appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn at all times.
- SpaceX is committed to equal opportunity employment. Reasonable accommodations during the application process can be requested by contacting EEOCompliance@spacex.com.
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.