NPI Engineer (Starlink)

As an NPI Engineer for PCBA at SpaceX, your main responsibilities include managing PCBA production processes, collaborating with design engineers on new product introductions, optimizing quality and manufacturability, and handling process documentation. You will also track schedules and work-in-progress, ensuring high standards in product output.

To qualify for the NPI Engineer position at SpaceX, you need a Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline such as mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. Additionally, having at least one year of experience in manufacturing processes or PCB design is highly beneficial for your application.

While high-volume production experience, such as in consumer goods or automotive sectors, is preferred for the NPI Engineer role at SpaceX, it is not strictly required. Interest and experience in SMT processing and PCB assembly will give you a competitive edge.

For an NPI Engineer at SpaceX, skills in statistical techniques, familiarity with IPC standards, and hands-on experience with SMT processes are invaluable. Knowledge of programming languages such as SQL or Python and experience with Six Sigma methodologies can also significantly boost your candidacy.

NPI Engineers at SpaceX may need to lift objects up to 25 lbs and are expected to work flexible hours including weekends. The fast-paced environment requires adaptability and collaboration, making it essential to thrive under pressure.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects you’ve worked on that involved PCB design. Discuss tools you used, challenges you faced, and how you optimized the design for manufacturing. Be sure to relate your experience back to how it aligns with SpaceX's needs.

Discuss your approach to implementing quality control measures, such as statistical process control. Mention any specific methodologies you’ve used, like Six Sigma, and provide examples of how you've successfully improved product quality in past roles.

Explain your experience with data analysis to identify inefficiencies. Provide examples of specific strategies you’ve implemented in previous roles to optimize manufacturing processes and the positive outcomes that resulted.

Share any relevant experience you have with surface mount technology, emphasizing hands-on tasks you performed. Highlight any projects where you drove improvements in SMT processes and how you overcame specific challenges.

Discuss your approach to time management and prioritization techniques. Mention tools and methods you use, such as project management software, and provide an example of how you successfully managed competing deadlines in a previous role.

Outline the situation, the steps you took to identify the problem, and the outcome. Focus on your analytical skills, and be specific about the tools and techniques you used to resolve the issue.

Discuss your familiarity with IPC standards and how you’ve ensured compliance in your previous roles. Outline the training or auditing processes you’ve implemented or participated in to maintain high standards of production.

Explain how you’ve used data to drive decisions in your previous roles. Share specific tools you’re familiar with, like SQL or Python, and any metrics you’ve tracked to report on production efficiency or quality.

Emphasize the importance of teamwork and communication in your approach. Provide examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline new product introductions, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned.

Share your passion for aerospace and how SpaceX's mission resonates with you. Discuss any specific aspects of the technology or projects that excite you, and how your background prepares you to contribute to SpaceX's goals.