Supplier Development Engineer, Mechanical Metrology

About the role

This role supports the Starlink User Terminal business by scaling precision measurement capabilities for high-volume manufacturing. You will manage the end-to-end metrology strategy, from initial supplier selection through production ramp and field performance monitoring.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee supplier development for mechanical metrology and high-precision components, including NPI, qualification, and quality support.
• Define metrology methods, datum schemes, and GD&T implementation while integrating AI-powered measurement solutions.
• Design and qualify precision measurement fixtures and conduct repeatability studies.
• Evaluate supplier manufacturing capabilities, including capacity, process windows, and measurement system stability.
• Lead PPAP, First Article Inspections, and GR&R studies to support high-volume production.
• Perform root cause analysis and corrective actions for dimensional non-conformances and measurement escapes.
• Provide technical direction to internal labs and technicians to ensure consistent execution of measurement standards.

This role is focused on scaling precision measurement for the high-volume manufacturing of Starlink User Terminals. You will oversee supplier development for mechanical metrology and high-precision components, covering NPI, qualification, and quality support, and you will define metrology methods, datum schemes, and GD&T implementation while integrating AI-powered measurement solutions. Because parts are produced at high rates, measurement must be both fast and trustworthy.

The work is heavily hands-on with measurement systems. You will design and qualify precision measurement fixtures and conduct repeatability studies, evaluate supplier manufacturing capabilities including capacity, process windows, and measurement system stability, and lead PPAP, First Article Inspections, and GR&R studies to support high-volume production. When dimensional non-conformances or measurement escapes occur, you will perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions, and you will provide technical direction to internal labs and technicians so that measurement standards are executed consistently.

High-volume production means measurement must be fast, automated, and reliable, which is why the role involves integrating AI-powered measurement solutions and advanced inspection hardware. If a measurement system is not stable, decisions based on it become unreliable, so a deep understanding of metrology, measurement system analysis, and GD&T is central to success. The role also requires close work with suppliers to ensure their measurement capability matches the pace and precision of Starlink production, which involves frequent travel and on-site evaluation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, metrology, industrial engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 1+ years of experience in mechanical metrology, precision manufacturing, or supplier development (internships and extracurriculars qualify).
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to meet ITAR requirements.
• Ability to work onsite in Bastrop, TX.
• Ability to travel up to 25% domestically and internationally.
• Valid driver's license.
• Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed for production support.

Nice to have

• 3+ years of experience in mechanical metrology, precision manufacturing, or supplier development.
• Proficiency in PC-DMIS programming and familiarity with Hexagon CMM and Optical Measurement Machine hardware.
• Hands-on experience applying AI and machine learning to metrology.
• Deep knowledge of ASME Y14.5, ISO 4287/4288, ASME B46.1, ISO 17025, AS9100, and IPC standards.
• Experience with Minitab, DOE, Six Sigma, and statistical tools.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams or manage technical labs.

Skills & tools

GD&T, MSA, GR&R, PPAP, APQP, DFMEA, PFMEA. CMMs, optical scanners, surface profilometers, laser trackers. PC-DMIS, Minitab. AI and machine learning for automated vision and anomaly detection.

Practical notes

This is an onsite position; remote work is not available. The role may require long hours and weekend work during critical production ramps. SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation should contact 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.