Director, Starlink Production (Assembly)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

DIRECTOR, STARLINK PRODUCTION (ASSEMBLY)

We are seeking a highly motivated and achievement-oriented leader to own Starlink Product Assembly Production in Bastrop, TX—scaling high-volume manufacturing to fuel global connectivity for millions. This includes oversight and responsibility for Assembly, Test, Manufacturing Engineering, Automation, and Maintenance across high-rate automated mechanical/pick & place, SMT/PCBA, and large electromechanical build production lines. This position plays a critical role in achieving rapid user expansion required for the success of the organization. Ideal candidates have a successful track record of scaling complex operations, leading 200+ person teams, and building cross-functional partnerships.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee the strategic & tactical execution of Starlink Product Production
• Lead 250+ staff (multiple direct reports) across engineering and operations.
• Lead and mentor high-performing teams of manufacturing, process, and automation engineers to operationalize and continuously improve production.
• Implement a development program to enhance the capability of all team members while improving quality and reducing lead time & cost.
• Partner with Responsible Engineering teams to embed manufacturability into the design of new products and production lines.
• Ensure a strong focus is placed on safety and maintain an excellent safety record.
• Champion continuous improvement projects using appropriate metrics & data.
• Use quality metrics to continually improve the quality output of the operation.
• Manage resource levels to ensure optimum performance of the team.
• Monitor and communicate area status/readiness and risks to leadership.
• Monitor and maintain compliance with internal quality and customer contractual requirements.
• Foster a spirit of cooperation and collaboration within and between departments.
• Meet tight production schedules to achieve high-rate production, while adapting to changing priorities in a fast-moving environment.
• Think creatively and drive innovation; question the status quo, while following documentation and maintaining prescribed quality standards.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM or engineering discipline OR 7+ years of production/manufacturing experience.
• 5+ years of experience in production/manufacturing/operations.
• 5+ years of experience in people leadership. 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience managing large teams comprised of engineering and operations.
• Thorough knowledge of electronics manufacturing and test techniques.
• Experience monitoring cost and quality (ISO 9000, AS9100) standards.
• Experience developing and delivering continuous improvement projects within a production environment.
• Experience in fast-paced iterative design environments within the consumer electronics, mobile handset, medical devices, or automotive industries.
• Able to communicate complex concepts, problems, and solutions clearly and effectively to all levels within the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to act and execute in a scrappy, entrepreneurial manner against tight timelines and aggressive schedules.
• Strong desire to mentor and grow employees and manage out poor performers.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.
• Willing to travel as needed, up to 25%.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.  

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.