Supplier Development Engineer II, Mechanical Systems (Starlink)

A Supplier Development Engineer II, Mechanical Systems at SpaceX is responsible for enhancing the quality, cost, delivery, and capacity metrics of mechanical hardware for Starlink satellites. Their duties include collaborating with design and manufacturing teams, resolving supplier quality issues, defining technical requirements, and analyzing supplier performance trends.

SpaceX requires candidates for the Supplier Development Engineer II, Mechanical Systems role to hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering and possess 3+ years of experience in manufacturing or mechanical engineering. Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree, experience in project ownership, and familiarity with statistical techniques and lean supply chain concepts.

The Supplier Development Engineer II plays a crucial role in the Starlink project by ensuring that suppliers produce components that meet high-quality standards and specifications. They work cross-functionally to implement effective supply chain strategies and continuously push for improvements in the mechanical hardware supplied for satellite and ground station systems.

Preferred skills for this position include a Master’s degree, demonstrated project ownership, effective negotiation skills, knowledge of statistical methods, and lean production concepts. Additionally, exceptional analytical abilities and strong organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

A Supplier Development Engineer II, Mechanical Systems at SpaceX works on various projects related to the development and production of mechanical systems for Starlink satellites. This includes overseeing supplier quality issues, improving production processes, and collaborating on new product innovations to enhance connectivity for underserved regions.

When answering this question, focus on specific examples of successful supplier relationships you’ve managed, detailing your role in improving quality, introducing cost-saving measures, or guiding suppliers through the PPAP process.

Highlight your approach to defining clear technical requirements and how you communicate them to suppliers, as well as the steps you take to monitor compliance through audits and performance analysis.

Be prepared to discuss specific methodologies like the 5 Whys or Fishbone Diagram that you utilize for identifying root causes and how you collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve issues effectively.

Explain your criteria for prioritization, such as the potential impact on production goals, cost savings, or risk mitigation, and how you gather data to inform your decisions.

Share a compelling story about a specific project, emphasizing your leadership role, the challenges faced, the strategies implemented, and the measurable outcomes achieved.

Discuss particular challenges such as communication barriers or quality discrepancies and how you overcame them through proactive strategies and relationship-building with suppliers.

Talk about professional development activities you engage in, such as attending conferences, certifications, or being involved in engineering networks, and how these contribute to your effectiveness in your role.

Describe specific statistical tools and techniques you’ve employed, such as Six Sigma methodologies or design of experiments, and provide examples demonstrating their effectiveness in improving processes.

Share your approach to conflict resolution, emphasizing effective communication, negotiation skills, and your ability to find win-win solutions while remaining focused on project goals.

Articulate your understanding of the integral role of quality assurance in ensuring compliance, enhancing performance metrics, and ultimately contributing to the success of product integration into production.