Automation & Controls Engineer (Starship)

As an Automation & Controls Engineer at SpaceX, your key responsibilities include designing, developing, and managing automation projects for Starship production. You will be involved in the entire process from initial factory ideation to machine commissioning and hand-off to operational teams. Additionally, you'll architect and debug PLC code while ensuring that all systems comply with safety regulations, making our automation processes more efficient and reliable.

To apply for the Automation & Controls Engineer position at SpaceX, candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, computer science, or a related discipline, along with at least one year of experience in industrial automation design. Internships or hands-on involvement in projects related to electro-mechanical or automated systems will also be advantageous for candidates looking to stand out.

SpaceX prefers candidates who have experience working in fast-paced design roles and the ability to devise creative solutions to complex engineering problems. Proficiency in machine design, electrical systems, and PLC programming are highly valued. Familiarity with safety regulations, CAD tools, and industrial software is also desirable for this fast-evolving position.

At SpaceX, safety is paramount, especially in the Automation & Controls Engineer role. Engineers are required to implement ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant systems across various manufacturing equipment. This includes designing safety logic systems for robots, designing safe electrical systems, and ensuring that all automation processes prioritize the wellbeing of the manufacturing teams and comply with industry safety standards.

The compensation for the Automation & Controls Engineer at SpaceX varies based on experience and qualifications, ranging from $100,000.00 to $135,000.00 per year. In addition to base salary, employees may benefit from stock options, bonuses, and comprehensive health coverage. SpaceX also offers a favorable work-life balance with paid vacation and holiday allowances, making it a competitive package.

When answering, detail specific projects where you wrote or debugged PLC code, highlighting the programming languages and tools you used. Discuss how your coding practices met the needs of high-volume manufacturing contexts and provide examples of how you made the code maintainable and reusable, which is crucial for the Automation & Controls Engineer role at SpaceX.

Explain the safety standards you adhere to in your designs, such as ANSI/RIA15.06 and OSHA guidelines. Share specific instances where you've implemented safety measures or conducted risk assessments and elaborate on how you communicate safety protocols to team members in the context of your role as an Automation & Controls Engineer.

Discuss your project management strategy, including tools, methods, and communication practices you use to keep teams aligned. Elaborate on how you engage team members during the design process and ensure that final outcomes meet organizational goals and operational needs, crucial for the Automation & Controls Engineer position at SpaceX.

Share a detailed account of a challenging engineering problem, emphasizing your thought process in arriving at a simple yet effective solution. Highlight how this experience enriches your qualifications for the Automation & Controls Engineer role at SpaceX, focusing on creativity in problem-solving.

Describe your familiarity with HMI development and SCADA systems, providing specific examples of projects where you've designed user-friendly interfaces for automation systems. Emphasize your understanding of making complex processes more intuitive, which is essential for the Automation & Controls Engineer role.

Demonstrate your engagement with the engineering community by mentioning industry events, online courses, or professional organizations you follow. Highlight how staying abreast of advancements in automation technology allows you to bring innovative solutions to the Automation & Controls Engineer role at SpaceX.

Discuss your hands-on experience with various troubleshooting tools and methodologies. Mention specific techniques you've utilized to diagnose and resolve issues swiftly to maintain manufacturing efficiency, a key expectation for an Automation & Controls Engineer at SpaceX.

Explain your knowledge of electrical codes like NEC and how you incorporate them into your work. Share experiences where you validated compliance and your approach to ensuring that safety and regulatory standards are met in every project as an Automation & Controls Engineer.

Provide an example where you simplified complex engineering concepts for stakeholders without a technical background. Share your strategies for effective communication, which is essential for the collaborative nature of the Automation & Controls Engineer position at SpaceX.

Reflect on your passion for the field and what drives you to contribute to space exploration efforts. Discuss how this motivation aligns with SpaceX’s mission and how it fuels your desire to excel as an Automation & Controls Engineer.