Integration & Test Engineer (Satellite Test)

As an Integration & Test Engineer at SpaceX, your key responsibilities include managing integrated satellite testing operations, troubleshooting and evaluating test failures, implementing corrective actions, and developing testing procedures based on previous experiences. You will collaborate with different engineering teams to ensure the processes are efficient and reliable, contributing to the successful mission of our satellites in orbit.

To qualify for the Integration & Test Engineer role at SpaceX, you need a Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline along with at least one year of relevant mechanical design or manufacturing experience. Preferred qualifications include a Master’s degree, substantial experience with propulsion and avionics systems, and familiarity with programming languages such as Python or C++. Your ability to demonstrate engineering intuition and critical thinking will also be crucial.

Preferred skills for the Integration & Test Engineer role at SpaceX include hands-on experience in integration and testing of propulsion, thermal, electrical, and structural systems, as well as strong documentation and configuration management skills. Familiarity with writing test plans and procedures that ensure the integrity of our satellite systems is also a valuable asset, helping to facilitate smooth engineering operations.

Integration & Test Engineers at SpaceX experience a dynamic and collaborative work environment where innovation is key. You will be part of a talented team focused on pushing the boundaries of space exploration. The role may require extended hours or weekend work, especially during critical testing phases, but offers great rewards, including competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits packages.

Yes, some travel to SpaceX launch sites may be required for Integration & Test Engineers, typically up to 10%. This travel allows engineers to engage with the satellite testing processes directly at the launch locations, ensuring the final stages of integrating our technology are executed seamlessly.

In your answer, highlight specific projects you've worked on involving vehicle integration. Detail your role, any challenges you faced during testing, and how your contributions led to successful outcomes. This demonstrates your hands-on experience and problem-solving capabilities.

Discuss a structured method you employ for troubleshooting, such as identifying the issue, contacting relevant teams for insights, evaluating possible solutions, and executing corrective actions. Illustrating a systematic approach shows your analytical skills and teamwork.

Share an experience where the requirements were unclear. Explain how you navigated through uncertainty, collaborated with colleagues, or conducted research to determine the best course of action. This showcases your critical thinking and adaptability.

Talk about your proficiency in programming languages like Python or C++ : mention specific projects or tasks you accomplished using these languages. Highlight any automated testing scripts you developed to streamline testing processes, showcasing your technical skill set.

Point out the importance of clear documentation and regular updates. Describe any tools or platforms you use for communication, and provide examples of how effective communication led to successful project outcomes.

Elaborate on specific tools you have used for configuration management in previous roles. Discuss how you ensured that all components were documented and maintained, and how it helped improve project organization and efficiency.

Discuss how you gather feedback from testing phases, incorporate lessons learned, and collaborate with other engineers to refine procedures. Mention any specific techniques you've employed that resulted in improved testing efficiency.

Explain your strategy for triaging tasks based on urgency and impact. Discuss how you communicate priorities with your team and adjust your plan in response to changing demands.

Convey your passion for space exploration and technology. Share a personal story or a particular project that ignited your interest. This will convey enthusiasm and a genuine connection to the role.

Talk about your unique skills and experiences that make you a great fit for the team. Emphasize your ability to work effectively under pressure, your commitment to quality testing processes, and your collaborative spirit. Align your answer with SpaceX’s mission and values.