Hardware Test Specialist, Failure Analysis (Gateway)

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.

HARDWARE TEST SPECIALIST, FAILURE ANALYSIS (STARLINK)

As a Hardware Test Specialist for Starlink, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and performance of our satellites and ground stations. You will work on identifying, analyzing, and resolving hardware failures to improve the robustness and longevity of our PCBAs. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams including electrical, mechanical, software, and supply chain to enhance the overall reliability of the Starlink network. This is an opportunity to work on  cutting edge R&D technology, and some of the most complex application of electrical engineering in the industry.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• First level troubleshooting of test system errors by reading and interpreting test logs and telemetry
• Support production, engineering, and qualification tests including equipment bring up and configuration, dry runs, and in situ troubleshooting
• Aid in efforts to uncover root-cause of equipment failures and develop permanent resolution on issues found during test operations (via software updates, hardware changes, etc.)
• Execute and manage new configuration introduction into production area
• Design or repair assembly fixtures, tooling, and shop aids to improve manufacturing processes
• Identify and implement changes to design, process, safety, and floor layout to improve yield, performance, and cost
• Perform detailed failure analysis of satellite and gateway hardware, identifying root causes of failures and implementing corrective actions
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to improve product reliability and manufacturing processes
• Utilize schematics, test equipment, and inspection processes to conduct failure investigations on PCBA and other electronic components
• Work closely with the respective test engineers to ensure a close feedback loop on improving test assets
• Monitor yield rates and quality metrics, driving corrective actions to address non-conforming products
• Conduct environmental testing (thermal, vibration, HALT/HASS, TVAC) to validate product robustness
• Support production and field operations by providing technical guidance on failure resolution and process improvements
• Maintain thorough documentation of failure analysis findings, test results, and corrective actions

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school degree or equivalency certificate
• 1+ years of experience working in a hands-on technical position or a bachelor’s degree in an engineering field

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in an engineering, math or science discipline
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Power Point, Outlook)
• Excellent communication (written and verbal), teamwork, and organizational skills
• Strong understanding of technical documentation, engineering drawings, and schematics
• Experience performing electronic testing and inspection using measurement devices such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, etc.
• Hands-on experience with basic mechanical tools (calipers, screwdrivers, wrenches, etc.)
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
• Experience working in a variety of software environments, applications, and languages including Linux, Windows, Microsoft Office, git, SVN, JIRA, Altium, Mentor PCB, NX, Bash, and Python

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds
• Repetitive assembly operations, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.

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.