Automation and Controls Engineer, AI Satellites

SpaceX

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Work type
On-site
Location
Bastrop, TX
Posted
70 days ago
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Confirmed live today

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Similar $169k
$133k $205k
below market most similar roles pay here above market

This listing doesn't post a salary. Most similar roles pay $139,662–$197,750.

Based on 240 similar postings.

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About SpaceX

SpaceX designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft with the mission of enabling humans to become a multi-planetary species. It operates the Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship launch vehicles, as well as the Starlink satellite internet constellation.

SpaceX currently has 851 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $130,000–$165,000 across 590 roles with salary data.

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TL;DR · Automation and Controls Engineer, AI Satellites

The Automation and Controls Engineer, AI Satellites (Starmind) joins the Starmind team to develop an orbital compute fabric for high-performance AI processing in space. You will own the manufacturing line for hardware enabling on-orbit AI inference, specifically focusing on the assembly, integration, and testing of compute electronics, memory, and networking. Key responsibilities include designing and managing automation projects, architecting and debugging PLC code, and creating HMI screens. You will ensure factory safety by implementing ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant systems for robots and conveyors. Required skills include industrial automation design, electrical sizing of motors, and troubleshooting with multimeters and oscilloscopes. Technical proficiencies include Beckhoff TwinCAT, Ignition, EtherCAT, Profinet, and EPLAN. You will solve the challenge of delivering reliable power distribution and processing in extreme orbital environments.

What you'll do

  • Design, develop, and manage automation projects from initial factory ideation to operational hand-off.
  • Architect, write, and debug structured, maintainable PLC code for high-volume manufacturing applications.
  • Implement ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant safety systems for robots, gantries, and conveyors.
  • Design electrical systems that comply with NEC, NFPA, and UL508A regulations.
  • Create aesthetically simple HMI screens to facilitate machine operation and troubleshooting.
  • Manage project schedules and budgets while leading the team to meet production milestones.
  • Oversee the assembly, integration, and testing of compute electronics, memory, and networking hardware.

What we're looking for

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering, physics, or computer science discipline.
  • 1+ years of experience in industrial or factory automation design and implementation.
  • Experience designing and building electro-mechanical, robotic, or automated systems.
  • Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones.
  • U.S. citizen, national, lawful permanent resident, refugee, asylee, or eligible for Department of State authorization.
  • Experience with electromechanical systems (preferred).
  • Experience with electrical sizing of motors, cables, circuit protection, VFDs, and motion systems (preferred).
  • Proficiency in PLC programming, preferably Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text (preferred).

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