Automation & Controls Engineer (Raptor) - job 1 of 2

As an Automation & Controls Engineer for Raptor at SpaceX, your core responsibilities include designing, developing, and managing automation projects from ideation through to operational hand-off. You'll be deeply involved in architecting and debugging PLC code, ensuring system reliability by implementing ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant safety logic systems, and creating intuitive HMI screens. Your role will also encompass designing electrical systems according to NEC, NFPA, and UL508A standards, coordinating budgets, and schedules while motivating the team to meet project milestones.

To qualify for the Automation & Controls Engineer (Raptor) position at SpaceX, you need a Bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering, or a related field. Additionally, at least 1 year of experience in industrial or factory automation design is essential. Candidates with a solid understanding of safety standards, mechanical design, and electrical engineering are highly preferred, particularly those familiar with high-volume manufacturing environments.

In the Automation & Controls Engineer position at SpaceX, candidates with exciting problem-solving abilities and strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are preferred. Familiarity with machine design, motion systems, PLC programming, and electrical circuit design will give candidates a competitive edge. Additional skills in industrial software applications, robotics programming, and a proactive approach to learn different disciplines will be essential for success in this dynamic role.

As an Automation & Controls Engineer at SpaceX, you will be immersed in a fast-paced, innovative environment where collaboration is key. The work culture is driven by a shared passion for technology and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of aerospace engineering. You can expect a hands-on experience that challenges you to think creatively and work closely with a diverse team dedicated to achieving exceptional results for space exploration.

In your role as an Automation & Controls Engineer (Raptor) at SpaceX, you will work on groundbreaking projects that involve the design and integration of automated systems for the Raptor engine production process. You will oversee projects from concept through rollout, working on safety systems for various equipment, developing PLC programs, and creating user-friendly interfaces while ensuring compliance with safety standards, all aimed at unlocking new manufacturing capabilities for space exploration.

When discussing your approach to PLC code design, emphasize the importance of creating organized, structured, and well-documented code. Mention the benefits of adhering to coding best practices to ensure your code is maintainable and reusable, especially in high-volume manufacturing scenarios. Additionally, share an example of a project where your coding practices made a significant difference in performance or troubleshooting.

When asked about a challenging automation project, detail the specific challenge you faced, the steps you took to analyze the issue, and the creative solutions you implemented. Highlight your problem-solving process, collaboration with team members, and the positive outcome that resulted from your actions. This demonstrates your ability to handle complexities in a fast-paced engineering environment like SpaceX.

In response to safety standards, cite specific standards such as ANSI/RIA15.06 or OSHA regulations that are critical in industrial automation. Explain how you ensure compliance in your projects, how you integrate these standards into your designs, and how they impact system functionality and operational safety in manufacturing environments at SpaceX.

For this question, emphasize the importance of clear and concise communication, both verbally and in written formats. Share how you utilize tools for collaboration, hold regular check-ins, and promote an open environment for feedback. Providing an example of a successful teamwork experience will illustrate your strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively.

Discuss the principles of usability and user experience that guide your design of HMI screens. Highlight the importance of simplicity and clarity, ensuring that complex systems are visually explained through intuitive layouts. Mention your focus on audience needs, testing your designs with users, and making continuous improvements based on their feedback.

Share a specific instance where you needed to troubleshoot an automation system. Explain your step-by-step process for diagnosing the issue, from examining system logs or code to running diagnostic tests. Conclude with how you implemented a solution and whether it led to any system improvements or updates to protocols.

Explain how safety logic is essential in ensuring the safe operation of automated systems. Discuss its function in preventing hazardous conditions and machine malfunctions, and how you have implemented fail-safe measures in your designs. Share insight into compliance with safety guidelines and how you evaluate system safety at every design stage.

When addressing your experience with CAD software, detail your familiarity with tools like Siemens NX and Teamcenter. Describe how you've used these tools for generating detailed designs and managing product lifecycles. Highlight your ability to create accurate schematics and how this contributes to effective automation system design.

Talk about the methods you utilize to stay current with emerging technologies in automation engineering, such as attending industry conferences, enrolling in online courses, and following relevant publications. Mention how keeping abreast of the latest advancements informs your design approach and enhances your contribution to projects at SpaceX.

Discuss any experience you have with industrial software tools, such as programming PLCs and developing user interfaces. Emphasize your proficiency in software applications relevant to automation, like SCADA systems, robotics programming, and IoT implementations. Relate your experience to specific projects where you applied these technologies to enhance automation processes.