Sr. Tooling Engineer, Plastic Injection Molding (Starlink)

A Senior Tooling Engineer at SpaceX is responsible for leading the development of new plastic injection tooling projects that meet various product requirements. This includes collaborating with teams in supply management, product design, and manufacturing engineering, conducting supplier audits, and overseeing the tooling schedules and modifications. The role requires an innovative mindset to explore materials and manufacturing technologies while ensuring efficient and high-quality production.

To be considered for the Senior Tooling Engineer position at SpaceX, candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or materials engineering or a related discipline, or have 10+ years of relevant professional experience. Additionally, at least 5 years of hands-on experience in injection mold design and construction is essential, along with strong CAD skills and knowledge of scientific molding processes.

The salary range for a Senior Tooling Engineer at SpaceX varies between $125,000 to $175,000 per year, depending on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience. Alongside a competitive salary, the total rewards package also includes long-term incentives, comprehensive healthcare benefits, a 401(k) retirement plan, and generous paid time off.

Having over 10 years of direct hands-on experience in injection mold design, a detailed understanding of plastics molding processes, and proficiency in 3D CAD software significantly enhances your prospects of getting hired for the Senior Tooling Engineer role at SpaceX. Experience with Autodesk Moldflow simulations and Liquid Silicone Rubber molding can also be advantageous.

Yes, the Senior Tooling Engineer position at SpaceX may require travel to other company sites and vendor locations up to 50% of the time. This often includes both domestic and international travel, ensuring engineers can directly oversee tooling projects and collaborations.

In your response, detail specific projects where you led mold design from concept to execution, emphasizing your hands-on experience. Mention any challenges faced and how you overcame them, highlighting your ability to innovate and adapt.

Illustrate your collaborative approach by sharing examples of past projects where you successfully worked with various teams, such as design and manufacturing. Emphasize your communication skills and how you build consensus around design and material selections.

Discuss methodologies like Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and the role of simulation tools such as Moldflow. Explain how you leverage these to optimize tooling designs and validate quality through robust testing and feedback loops.

Explain your systematic approach to material selection, including factors like mechanical properties, cost, and availability. Provide examples of how past selections impacted both tool longevity and production effectiveness.

Share a specific incident where you identified a tooling issue, the steps you took to troubleshoot it, and the results. Highlight your analytical skills and the importance of teamwork in resolving challenges quickly.

Detail your experience conducting supplier audits, the criteria you focus on, and why those elements are crucial for ensuring tool quality and reliability. Providing real-life examples can reinforce your expertise.

Discuss your collaborative methods to ensure all stakeholders are aligned, such as regular meetings, design reviews, and using shared documentation tools. Emphasize the importance of continuous feedback in maintaining alignment throughout the project lifecycle.

Speak to your reliance on data analysis and performance metrics in informing choices regarding tooling designs, material selection, and process improvements. Share examples of how data-driven decisions led to better project outcomes.

Outline your time management and organizational strategies for juggling multiple projects. Mention the use of project management tools and prioritization techniques that help ensure deadlines and quality standards are met.

Share your enthusiasm for advancements in tooling technology, materials, and processes that can improve efficiency and product reliability. Highlight your commitment to staying informed about industry trends and how they can impact SpaceX's mission.