Avionics Test Engineer (Starshield)

As an Avionics Test Engineer at SpaceX, you will design and develop custom test solutions for satellites' electronic hardware, ensuring reliability and safety. You'll also write automation software in Python, collaborate closely with design engineers to provide feedback for innovations, and troubleshoot hardware during the testing phases, making your work critical for our missions.

To apply for the Avionics Test Engineer position at SpaceX, you should hold a bachelor’s degree in computer or electrical engineering or a related discipline. Additionally, having at least one year of experience in electronic hardware or software development and proficiency in programming languages like Python or MATLAB is required.

An Avionics Test Engineer at SpaceX should have at least one year of programming experience, primarily in Python, MATLAB, or Embedded C/C++. Your coding skills will be crucial for writing automation scripts and interacting with various test equipment.

Yes, SpaceX looks for candidates with experience in analyzing circuits and developing functional test plans, as well as familiarity with various test equipment like oscilloscopes and RF test tools. Additionally, experience in designing and troubleshooting PCBAs is highly valued.

At SpaceX, Avionics Test Engineers have opportunities for growth through on-the-job experience across various projects, involvement in new technology developments, and potential promotions based on performance. The dynamic work environment encourages continuous learning and career advancement.

When discussing your experience with electronic hardware development, mention specific projects you've worked on that highlight your knowledge of electronics, circuit design, and any test plans you developed. This demonstrates your practical skills and understanding of the role.

For troubleshooting electronic hardware issues, share your structured approach: start by be gathering data from test results, analyze anomalies, check design schematics, and apply your experience to root-cause the problem. Emphasize collaboration with colleagues for effective resolutions.

Discuss programming languages you're proficient in, like Python or MATLAB, and provide examples of projects where you've utilized these skills. Focus on how you wrote automation scripts that contributed to hardware testing, showcasing your relevant technical experience.

Share a specific example of a challenging project where teamwork was essential. Discuss your role, how you collaborated with others, and the outcome. This shows your ability to communicate, work collaboratively, and overcome obstacles with your peers.

Express your understanding of SpaceX's mission to enable human life on Mars and highlight how your work as an Avionics Test Engineer directly supports the development of reliable spacecraft technology. Share your excitement and vision for contributing to that future.

Explain your process for ensuring reliability, which may include meticulous documentation of tests, applying rigorous standards during procedures, and conducting multiple iterations to confirm results. Emphasize your attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Discuss your analytical techniques for investigating test anomalies, such as breaking down the issue into smaller components, referencing design specifications, and employing measurement tools to quantify discrepancies. Highlight your methodical approach to resolving them.

List the types of test equipment you're familiar with, such as oscilloscopes and DMMs, and provide examples of how you have used them in past projects to validate electronic components, emphasizing your hands-on experience.

Share your familiarity with RF test equipment like spectrum analyzers and signal generators by describing a project where you used this equipment to measure signals, validate performance, or troubleshoot RF circuits. Highlight your expertise and understanding of RF principles.

Be honest about your flexibility regarding working extended hours or weekends when necessary. Emphasize your commitment to meeting project milestones and ensuring project success, showcasing your dedication to the team and the mission.