Supplier Development Engineer, PCB/PCBA

About the role

Become a vital member of the Starshield supply chain team, where your focus will be on managing the sourcing and production processes for satellite hardware. In this role, you will collaborate closely with suppliers and internal engineering teams to ensure that printed circuit boards (PCBs) are manufactured to the highest standards, supporting critical national security missions.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee the continuity of supply for printed circuit boards and associated components, ensuring that production schedules are met without interruption.
• Conduct audits and evaluations of new suppliers, assessing their manufacturing capabilities and quality management systems to ensure they meet SpaceX standards.
• Define technical specifications and quality requirements that must be adhered to during the production of hardware components.
• Implement production part approval processes to facilitate efficient manufacturing rates and ensure compliance with design specifications.
• Track and analyze supplier performance metrics, leading investigations into any failures to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Initiate and drive initiatives aimed at reducing costs, improving cycle times, and enhancing yield rates at the supplier level.
• Serve as a liaison among internal engineering teams, procurement, and manufacturing departments to foster collaboration and streamline processes.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to address supply chain challenges and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.
• Prepare and present reports on supplier performance and project status to senior management, ensuring transparency and accountability.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in PCB manufacturing to bring innovative solutions to the supply chain.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to facilitate effective communication and problem resolution.
• Support the development of training materials and programs for suppliers to enhance their capabilities and align them with SpaceX's quality standards.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in an engineering field is required for this position.
• Prior experience with printed circuit boards, electrochemical processes, engineering laminates, or microelectronics fabrication is essential, which can include internships, academic projects, or involvement in relevant clubs.
• Willingness to travel between 25% to 60% for both domestic and international assignments is necessary for this role.
• A valid driver's license is required to facilitate travel to supplier locations.
• Flexibility to work weekends and extended hours as needed to meet project deadlines is expected.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team are essential for success in this role.

Nice to have

• An advanced degree in business, engineering, or supply chain management would be advantageous.
• Familiarity with quality management systems such as ISO 9000, AS9100, TS, or NADCAP is a plus.
• Experience with supplier quality processes, including Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), First Article Inspection Report (FAIR), and Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) is desirable.
• Knowledge of Six Sigma methodologies, design of experiments, or statistical process control techniques would be beneficial.
• A background in electronics manufacturing, particularly in high-speed or RF PCBs, is a valuable asset.
• Experience in problem-solving using the 8D methodology would be a plus.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in statistical process control techniques to ensure product quality.
• Expertise in root cause failure analysis to identify and resolve issues effectively.
• Strong skills in manufacturing process optimization to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Excellent technical communication abilities to convey complex information clearly.
• Proficient in project management to oversee multiple initiatives simultaneously.

Practical notes

Salary: Level I ranges from $100,000 to $115,000 per year; Level II ranges from $110,000 to $135,000 annually.

The total rewards package includes options for company stock or long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and an employee stock purchase plan. Benefits encompass comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, life insurance, disability insurance, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and over ten paid holidays annually.

ITAR Requirements: To comply with U.S. government export regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.