Development Technician - Level 4/5 (Starlink)

As a Development Technician - Level 4/5 at SpaceX, your primary responsibilities include programming and operating CNC mills, fabricating electromechanical production systems, assembling complex integrated assemblies, and interpreting engineering drawings. You'll work closely with engineers to optimize the production capabilities and support the rapid growth of the Starlink project. Being innovative and ensuring a safe working environment while promoting a tidy workspace will also be key tasks for you.

To qualify for the Development Technician - Level 4/5 role at SpaceX, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with at least 3 years of experience in mechanical fabrication and over 5 years in CNC machine tool programming. Preferred skills include experience in reading mechanical drawings, knowledge in electromechanical systems, and the ability to work independently. A positive attitude and teamwork experience are vital for fitting into SpaceX's culture.

Preferred skills for the Development Technician - Level 4/5 position at SpaceX include reading mechanical and engineering drawings, interpreting fluid and electrical schematics, and knowledge of safety standards in wiring. Familiarity with CNC processes, electromechanical systems, strong attention to detail, and computer proficiency are also beneficial. These skills will help you contribute effectively to the Starlink project and work seamlessly within a team.

As a Development Technician at SpaceX, you’ll find a dynamic and innovative work environment that thrives on collaboration and creativity. You’ll be part of a team dedicated to advancing satellite technology and will play an essential role in our research and development efforts for the Starlink project. The workplace emphasizes safety, organization, and continuous improvement, fostering an environment where ideas and feedback are welcomed and valued.

The physical requirements for the Development Technician - Level 4/5 role at SpaceX include the ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted, as well as performing tasks that involve lifting, standing, climbing, walking, bending, and reaching. A willingness to work overtime and weekends when necessary to meet critical deadlines is also important, ensuring you can support the ambitious goals of the Starlink project.

In answering this question, focus on specific machines you have operated, the types of parts you have programmed for, and any optimization improvements you've implemented. Highlight how your experience can contribute to the efficiency of SpaceX's production processes.

When addressing this question, detail your process for reviewing and analyzing engineering drawings. Talk about your attention to detail and how you utilize drawings to guide your fabrication work, emphasizing accuracy and clarity in communication with team members.

Discuss your personal commitment to safety principles, such as following written safety protocols and keeping your workspace organized. You might share examples of specific practices you've implemented in past roles that enhance both efficiency and safety.

Choose a specific challenge related to mechanical fabrication or assembly. Detail your problem-solving process, including how you analyzed the issue, the steps you took to resolve it, and the final outcome. Emphasize your creative solution and its positive impact on the project.

Detail any specific projects where you worked with electromechanical systems, such as wiring harnesses or pneumatic systems. Discuss your understanding of the components involved and how you’ve integrated them into working systems, showcasing your technical expertise.

Share a specific strategy you use for prioritization, such as making a to-do list or focusing on deadlines first. Give an example from your experience where prioritizing tasks led to successful outcomes, showing your ability to handle fast-paced work environments.

Talk about how you maintain open communication and actively seek feedback when collaborating with engineers. Provide an example that highlights the importance of teamwork and how your collaborative approach improved the project outcome.

Explain your approach to inventory management, including any software tools or manual methods you've used in the past. Share an example that emphasizes how your practices contributed to smoother operations and minimized delays.

Illustrate your openness to feedback by sharing a situation where suggestions from teammates or engineers led to improvements. Detail how you implemented the feedback and the positive results it had on tooling designs or production efficiency.

Express your passion for innovation and technology as key motivators. Share how the mission of SpaceX and the work being done in the Starlink project inspire you to contribute at the highest level.