Sr. Automation & Controls Engineer (Starship)

A Sr. Automation and Controls Engineer at SpaceX is responsible for designing and managing automation projects, ensuring safety compliance for manufacturing systems, and creating efficient control systems to improve Starship production. They also play a key role in writing and debugging PLC code, developing user-friendly HMI screens, and implementing compliant electrical systems.

Candidates for the Sr. Automation and Controls Engineer role at SpaceX should hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, alongside a minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation. Proven skills in programming, safety systems implementation, and electrical design per relevant regulations are also essential.

Preferred skills for the Sr. Automation and Controls Engineer position at SpaceX include experience with motion system sizing, CAD software, troubleshooting electrical systems, and familiarity with safety codes like NEC and UL508A. Experience in quick iteration design and manufacturing processes is also beneficial.

The salary range for a Sr. Automation and Controls Engineer at SpaceX typically falls between $130,000 and $180,000 per year, based on factors such as experience, education, and job-related knowledge. Additional benefits include stock options, comprehensive medical coverage, and generous paid leave.

Candidates preparing for an interview at SpaceX for the Sr. Automation and Controls Engineer position should research the company’s mission and recent projects, familiarize themselves with relevant automation technologies, and be ready to discuss past experiences that demonstrate their skill sets and problem-solving abilities.

When answering this question, highlight a specific project where you demonstrated your engineering skills. Discuss what the project entailed, your role, the challenges faced, and how you effectively delivered results. Emphasize innovation and collaboration.

Discuss your knowledge of relevant safety standards and regulations (like ANSI/RIA15.06 and OSHA). Share your experience in designing systems that incorporate safety features and the steps you take to maintain compliance throughout the project lifecycle.

Be specific about the programming languages you know, particularly any related to PLC programming and automation systems. Mention specific experiences where you wrote functional and maintainable code during previous projects.

Explain your methodical approach to troubleshooting, such as isolating the problem, analyzing code and logic, and testing components systematically. Illustrate with an example where your strategies led to effective solutions.

Detail your familiarity with creating intuitive HMI screens. Discuss how your designs improved usability and efficiency in complex systems, and share any software tools you have employed to achieve these developments.

Describe your work with electrical schematics, design criteria according to NEC standards, and any specific projects that required careful electrical integration. Emphasize your understanding of electrical sizing, protection systems, and fail-safe designs.

Talk about your strategy for project management, such as utilizing scheduling tools, setting clear goals, and maintaining communication with your team. Illustrate how these methods helped you stay focused on critical milestones.

Share details about your experience with specific robots or programming languages you’ve used in automation. Discuss a project where your skills were key to advancing robotic functions and safety features.

Identify typical challenges like system reliability, change management, or integrating new technologies. Provide examples of how you've successfully addressed these challenges in previous roles.

Express your passion for space exploration and technology. Discuss how SpaceX's mission aligns with your values and interests, and explain how your skills can contribute to groundbreaking projects.