Data & Control Systems Technician

As a Data & Control Systems Technician at SpaceX, your primary responsibilities involve installing and terminating wiring for instrumentation and data acquisition systems, performance checks of wiring integrity, and troubleshooting issues that arise from test data. You'll lead complex projects, work with a variety of technological equipment, and collaborate closely with design engineers to ensure systems perform as required.

To be considered for the Data & Control Systems Technician role at SpaceX, a high school diploma or equivalency certificate is required, alongside at least one year of relevant professional experience with instrumentation like transducers and accelerometers. Preferred qualifications include an Associate's degree in Aerospace Technology or similar and hands-on experience in launch site instrumentation.

Key skills that will help you succeed as a Data & Control Systems Technician at SpaceX include proficiency with various hand and power tools, basic knowledge of electrical theory, as well as experience with PLC and DAQ programming. Familiarity with industry standards like ISO 9000 and quality inspection processes for harnessing and cables is also beneficial.

Candidates applying for the Data & Control Systems Technician role at SpaceX typically benefit from having two or more years of hands-on experience with launch site instrumentation. Experience in helping to develop procedures, familiarity with Microsoft Office software, and an understanding of electrical circuit design are also valuable assets.

The Data & Control Systems Technician position at SpaceX requires candidates to be physically fit, as the work can involve tight spaces and manual handling of equipment. You should be able to lift objects up to 25 lbs unassisted and work at elevated heights, along with enduring extreme environments such as heat, cold, and noise.

When asked about installing and terminating wiring, be sure to walk the interviewer through your systematic approach, from gathering necessary tools to ensuring safety standards are followed, through to labeling and testing the connections to verify functionality. Highlight relevant experience while emphasizing attention to detail.

In your answer, describe specific troubleshooting techniques you employ, such as using measuring instruments like ohmmeters to locate faults, and explain how you document and communicate findings to team members for effective resolution, stressing your collaborative skills.

Illustrate your ability to prioritize tasks based on urgency, project deadlines, and resource availability. Discuss any tools or methods you use for time management, and how you adapt to changing priorities, ensuring that quality is not compromised.

Discuss any specific projects involving PLCs, elaborating on programming languages used and how you have contributed to the maintenance and troubleshooting of these systems. Demonstrate your confidence and expertise in this area.

Talk about your knowledge of quality standards like ISO 9000, and how you've implemented these standards in your previous roles. Provide examples of inspections you’ve performed to ensure compliance and how you’ve documented processes.

Share relevant experiences in designing and fabricating simple electrical circuits. Highlight any specific projects or scenarios where your designs optimized functionality or addressed particular challenges.

List the tools you frequently use, emphasizing any specialized equipment relevant to the role. Discuss safety practices and how your proficiency contributes to efficient project completion.

Illustrate your interpersonal skills by providing examples of successful teamwork. Mention particular tools or communication methods that facilitate collaboration, and how you adapt your communication style to different team members.

When discussing a challenging problem, clearly outline the situation, your thought process in diagnosing the issue, and the steps taken to resolve it. This shows your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Share your passion for technology and space exploration, highlighting the thrill of solving complex problems and contributing to innovative projects. This conveys your enthusiasm for the role and aligns with SpaceX's mission.