Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Test Hardware Development

SR. MECHANICAL ENGINEER, TEST HARDWARE DEVELOPMENT (STARLINK)

The Starlink team designs, builds, and operates the most complex on orbit communications system in the world. As a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, you will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to design and build mechanical, fluid, and electrical systems required to enable successful high-volume production of the Starlink satellites.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to understand and drive requirements for production and development testing of highly complex spaceflight hardware
• Design fixtures, mechanisms, fluid systems and other types of hardware to support safe, efficient, and reliable testing of satellite systems
• Create detailed documentation for test systems including engineering drawings and schematics 
• Utilize hand calculations and tools such as FEA to inform and validate design decisions
• Balance multiple high-priority projects through effective time management and communication
• Demonstrate extreme ownership of all project phases from initial concept to final commissioning and operation
• Work closely with technicians to build, assemble, and operate test systems
• Review data to understand and validate performance of test systems

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline or STEM discipline
• Experience with CAD and FEA software packages 
• 5+ years of experience with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
• 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis
• 2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team lead
• Proficient in 3D CAD (NX preferred)
• Solid understanding and application of GD&T
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems
• Prior ownership of a complex component or assembly from initial design through high-volume production ramp
• Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills
• Knowledge of and experience in selecting materials, manufacturing methods, and surface treatments for mechanical components
• Basic understanding of industrial electrical, control, and instrumentation systems
• Experience working effectively across multi-disciplinary teams
• Desire to work in a fast-paced environment
• Basic proficiency with Python or other programming language

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:                          

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.