Integration & Test Engineer (Optical)

As an Integration & Test Engineer (Optical) at SpaceX, your responsibilities will include driving testing efforts for complex spaceflight hardware, developing test plans, and executing validation testing for optical systems. You'll need to evaluate designs for manufacturability, manage build flow, and carry out performance characterization and reliability testing to ensure our cutting-edge technology is operationally ready.

Applicants for the Integration & Test Engineer (Optical) position should possess a Bachelor's degree in physics or an engineering discipline, along with at least 2 years of hands-on experience in optics, photonics, or laser technology. Experience in a programming language such as C++, LabVIEW, or Python is also necessary, with preferred qualifications including a Master's degree or PhD, and familiarity with optical analysis tools and test equipment.

The Integration & Test Engineer (Optical) plays a vital role in the Space Lasers program by ensuring that optical systems are rigorously tested and validated. You will be responsible for qualitative outcomes that directly tie to the success of the program. Your work in test design, data processing, and root cause analysis drives continuous improvement and innovation in our laser technologies.

Success as an Integration & Test Engineer (Optical) at SpaceX requires a blend of technical and interpersonal skills. A robust understanding of optics and photonics principles is essential, alongside excellent problem-solving abilities and communication skills to effectively collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams. Attention to detail, safety awareness, and proficiency with optical and testing equipment are also crucial to meet the challenges of the role.

Yes, experience in a programming language is necessary for the Integration & Test Engineer (Optical) role at SpaceX. Candidates should have at least 1 year of proficiency in languages like C++, LabVIEW, or Python. This technical ability is important for developing testing software and analyzing test data effectively, all critical for validating our advanced optical systems.

Discuss specific projects where you were involved in testing optical systems, detailing the methodologies used and the outcomes achieved. Emphasize any hands-on experience with test equipment and your role in evaluating system performance.

Explain your systematic approach to diagnosing issues, including gathering data, performing root cause analysis, and collaborating with other team members to resolve problems. Highlight past experiences that demonstrate your effectiveness in troubleshooting.

Mention specific optical analysis tools like Zemax, along with any programming languages you’ve utilized, such as Python or LabVIEW, highlighting how these tools aided in your testing and analysis efforts in previous roles.

Share strategies for managing your workload efficiently, such as setting clear objectives, using project management techniques, and remaining flexible to adapt to changing priorities, particularly in an environment like SpaceX that is focused on high-stakes outcomes.

Discuss your involvement in multi-disciplinary projects, describing how you collaborated with other engineers and teams, what specific challenges arose during integration, and how you contributed to the successful outcome of the project.

Detail a specific instance where you identified inefficiencies in a testing process and implemented changes that improved accuracy, reduced time, or enhanced overall performance. Be prepared to discuss the metrics that showed improvement.

Talk about the importance of safety protocols in optical testing, your understanding of potential hazards, and any specific safety training you've undergone. Give examples of how you have adhered to safety standards in your past roles.

Mention various resources you utilize, such as academic journals, conferences, online courses, or professional organizations, to stay updated on trends and advancements in optics and laser technology, particularly those relevant to aerospace applications.

Emphasize the collaborative nature of the role. Discuss how you value input from diverse team members, share knowledge, and coordinate efforts with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals, as it is essential for success in dynamic environments like SpaceX.

Articulate your passion for aerospace and technology, your enthusiasm for the projects undertaken by SpaceX, and how your skills align with the company's mission of enabling human life on Mars, showcasing your commitment to making a significant impact in this innovative field.