International Infrastructure Operations Manager II (Starlink) - job 1 of 2

As an International Infrastructure Operations Manager II (Starlink) at SpaceX, your key responsibilities will include establishing and managing supplier partnerships for the construction and operation of the ground infrastructure. You'll also be expected to cultivate regional expertise to ensure the reliability and health of existing and future projects while developing best practices for managing timelines and costs at a global scale. Collaborating with cross-functional teams will be essential to streamline processes and activate gateways quickly.

To qualify for the International Infrastructure Operations Manager II position at SpaceX, you need a bachelor's degree and at least 8 years of experience in a supply chain, operations, or engineering function. Management experience with an international supplier base is preferred, as well as proficiency in technical project management. Exceptional communication skills and the ability to tackle complex challenges independently are essential to succeed in this role.

In the role of International Infrastructure Operations Manager II at SpaceX, beneficial technical skills include project management in construction, planning experience, and proficiency in Python or SQL. Familiarity with data analysis and visualization, as well as financial analysis skills, will also enhance your effectiveness in managing various operational challenges and supplier relationships throughout the project's lifecycle.

The International Infrastructure Operations Manager II plays a crucial role in advancing SpaceX's mission by ensuring the establishment and operational reliability of gateways, which facilitate the delivery of internet services worldwide. By creatively managing suppliers and commercial agreements, you help to foster technological infrastructure that furthers SpaceX’s goal of connecting remote areas, ultimately contributing to the grand vision of making life multi-planetary.

The International Infrastructure Operations Manager II at SpaceX will be expected to travel up to 25% of the time as needed. This travel may involve visiting international suppliers and field locations, so a willingness to engage with global partners and adapt to different time zones will be crucial for success in this role.

In responding to this question, focus on specific examples of how you've built and maintained relationships with suppliers across different regions. Mention any strategies or tools you've used to facilitate effective communication and collaboration. Highlight any measurable outcomes you achieved through these partnerships.

When answering this question, discuss a particular complex problem you've faced in your previous roles. Explain your thought process, the steps you took to address the issue, and the final outcome. Emphasize your ability to think critically and implement innovative solutions in high-pressure scenarios.

In your response, highlight methodologies or frameworks you've used to evaluate infrastructure performance. Discuss any data analysis techniques or benchmark assessments that inform your decisions, and provide an example of how these have improved operational reliability in your past roles.

To answer effectively, consider sharing your approach to communication and negotiation with suppliers. Discuss tools you've utilized for project tracking and timeline management, and offer insights on how to foster strong relationships to keep projects on schedule.

Highlight the significance of collaboration with various teams including engineering, finance, and legal in your operations. Provide examples of how you have engaged cross-functional teams to solve problems or achieve project goals. Elaborate on the importance of clear communication and mutual understanding for successful project execution.

When addressing this question, share specific tools or software you're familiar with, emphasizing your ability to interpret data to support strategic decisions. Provide an example of a project where your analytical skills led you to key insights, influencing operational improvements or supplier engagement.

Discuss specific approaches that have worked in your experience, such as implementing feedback loops, encouraging innovation, or hosting regular strategy sessions. Highlight the importance of creating an environment where team members feel empowered to suggest changes and take ownership of their work.

It's essential to convey your methods for prioritizing tasks and managing workload under pressure. Share a past experience where you successfully met a challenging deadline, outlining the planning and coordination efforts that led to that successful outcome.

Respond to this by outlining any project management software and tools you've utilized, such as Trello, Asana, or Microsoft Project. Emphasize your comfort in adapting to new technologies and how these tools aid collaboration, organization, and communication within your projects.

Provide a detailed example illustrating your proactive approach to improvement. Discuss how you identified the opportunity, the steps you took to implement change, and the positive impact it had on the project's outcome and team dynamics.