Electrical Test and Reliability Engineer (Starlink)

As an Electrical Test and Reliability Engineer at SpaceX, your main responsibilities include designing automated test solutions for avionics and payload hardware, developing software for test automation using Python, and conducting robust electrical bench testing. You will also work on the design validation process and engage in hands-on support during production and integration phases of satellite hardware.

Preferred qualifications for the Electrical Test and Reliability Engineer position at SpaceX include a Master’s degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering, along with experience in analyzing circuits, designing and troubleshooting PCBAs, and a strong understanding of programming languages like Python and C/C++. Familiarity with environmental testing and measurement techniques is also beneficial.

The Electrical Test and Reliability Engineer plays a crucial role in the Starlink project by ensuring the satellite hardware is reliable under extreme conditions. You will analyze failure data, drive design improvements, and work closely with cross-functional teams to create a high-performance and seamless communication network that connects users all over the world.

Essential skills for success in the Electrical Test and Reliability Engineer role at SpaceX include strong analytical abilities, a solid understanding of electronics reliability and failure mechanisms, proficiency in programming (especially Python), and practical experience with electrical test equipment. A collaborative mindset to work effectively across various engineering disciplines is also vital.

In the Electrical Test and Reliability Engineer position at SpaceX, you will engage in diverse projects related to high-speed digital communications, RF systems, and avionics hardware development. You'll get hands-on opportunities to design test setups, validate hardware, and delve into failure analysis to enhance the reliability of Starlink's satellite technology.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects where you designed test solutions. Discuss the tools and technologies you used, any challenges you faced, and how your solutions helped improve the process. Providing concrete examples will showcase your technical experience effectively.

Be ready to share your experience with programming languages, focusing on Python and C/C++. Discuss specific scenarios where your programming skills were crucial, such as automating tests or analyzing data gathered from testing. Highlight any projects where your coding resulted in improved efficiency or effectiveness.

In your response, outline a structured approach to failure analysis. Discuss how you gather data, replicate failures, and identify root causes. Emphasize your analytical skills and any tools or methods you typically use, ensuring you demonstrate the effectiveness of your approach in past projects.

When discussing this, illustrate your knowledge of various environmental testing methods like HALT/HASS. Explain their significance in ensuring that products can withstand extreme conditions in space, and reference any direct experience you have with these types of testing, along with the outcomes.

Select a project where you faced significant challenges. Detail the specific issues that arose, how you approached solving these problems, and the collaboration with your team. Showcase your problem-solving skills and your ability to remain resilient under pressure.

List the various types of test equipment you have experience with, such as oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers. Elaborate on your process for validating accuracy in measurements, including calibration routines and troubleshooting techniques that ensure reliable results in your tests.

Describe your communication style and strategy for working with teams from different engineering disciplines. Emphasize the importance of understanding each team's function and fostering a collaborative environment to ensure project success.

Share how you engage in continuous learning, such as taking online courses, attending workshops, or participating in professional organizations. Emphasize any recent technologies you've adopted that have improved your work in testing and reliability.

Provide a specific example where you analyzed test data and used it to inform design changes. Discuss the data collection methods, your analysis process, and how the changes you recommended led to a measurable improvement in product reliability or performance.

In your response, convey your passion for SpaceX's mission and how it aligns with your personal and professional values. Discuss your excitement for the Starlink project, and link your skills and experiences to the opportunity to contribute to such a groundbreaking initiative.