Apprentice Production Technician (Starlink)

As an Apprentice Production Technician at SpaceX, you will perform crucial tasks related to the assembly and integration of satellite components for the Starlink project. Your daily responsibilities will include building electrical sub-assemblies, performing mechanical and electrical assembly of PCB assemblies into product chassis, and conducting functional tests on hardware. You'll also work with solar modules, wire harnessing, and even some troubleshooting on automated equipment, ensuring your skills are continuously challenged and developed.

To apply for the Apprentice Production Technician position at SpaceX, you should ideally have a high school degree or equivalent certificate along with at least 1 year of hands-on work experience. Experience in electro-mechanical assembly and an A&P license are preferred as they can enhance your application. However, if you're passionate about technology and eager to learn, your motivation can also be a key factor in your eligibility.

In the Apprentice Production Technician role at SpaceX, preferred skills include experience in electro-mechanical assembly, mechanical drawing interpretation, and proficiency with electrical wiring. Familiarity with Microsoft Office and excellent communication skills will also serve you well in this collaborative environment. Certifications like IPC or J-STD can be beneficial, especially if you have prior experience setting up and running tests.

The work environment for an Apprentice Production Technician at SpaceX is dynamic and fast-paced, reflecting the company's innovative spirit. You will be part of a collaborative team focused on building and testing the components that will enable global internet access through the Starlink project. Aspects of the job may involve standing for long periods and working with various tools and equipment, as you contribute to exciting aerospace technology advancements.

Compensation for the Apprentice Production Technician role at SpaceX ranges from $22.00 to $26.50 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Beyond base pay, you'll have access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan, paid parental leave, and vacation time. Additionally, employees may receive stock options and performance bonuses, creating a robust total rewards package for your hard work.

In your answer, highlight specific tasks you've performed related to mechanical and electrical assembly, emphasizing your proficiency in interpreting drawings and following assembly procedures. Providing examples of any projects or roles that demonstrate your skills in this area will be beneficial.

It's essential to demonstrate an understanding of safety protocols in your answer. Discuss the importance of personal protective equipment, proper handling of components, and adherence to guidelines when operating machinery. This shows awareness of workplace safety in a manufacturing environment.

Discuss your time management strategies and how you assess task urgency and importance. Providing a real-life scenario where you successfully managed multiple deadlines can illustrate your ability to prioritize effectively while maintaining high-quality work.

Be prepared to share specific instances of your experience with functional testing of electrical devices. Detail the types of tests you've conducted, the tools you used, and any challenges you overcame. This illustrates your technical expertise in the role.

When answering this question, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly outline the problem, your role in addressing it, and the outcome of your actions. This showcases your problem-solving skills and adaptability in the workplace.

Emphasize your attention to detail and how you follow quality assurance processes. Talk about any specific checks or tests you conduct to verify the quality of your work before moving on to subsequent tasks, showing that you prioritize quality control.

Illustrate your understanding of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and how you rely on them to maintain consistency and ensure quality in your work. If possible, mention any experience writing or improving SOPs in previous roles.

List the tools and equipment you've worked with, such as soldering irons, multimeters, or calibration devices. Explain your level of comfort with using these tools and any relevant training you've received.

This is your opportunity to convey your excitement about the role and company. Talk about your passion for aerospace technology and how you believe your skills align with SpaceX’s mission, emphasizing your desire to contribute to innovative projects like Starlink.

Discuss your open-mindedness to feedback and learning from your experiences. Provide an example of how you received constructive criticism in the past, reflected on it, and applied the insights to improve your performance.