Automation & Controls Specialist

The role

The specialist installs and commissions new automation assets and builds data acquisition and control systems. They develop and integrate hardware including PLCs, wire harnesses, PCBs, and sensors to support Starship launches and testing.

What you will do

• Develop and upgrade electrical systems for ground support data acquisition and control
• Develop new hardware and processes to improve capabilities, cost, and setup time of ground support electrical systems
• Develop electrical schematics for system build and commissioning
• Develop software configurations required for control system capabilities
• Provide technical support and guidance for controls technicians and other non-controls engineering groups
• Lead shifts of technicians and/or contractors efficiently
• Analyze data to assess the function of electrical systems
• Assist in the design and analysis of experiments to evaluate test articles
• Perform other related duties, as assigned

Required qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 4+ years of professional experience working with electrical or data acquisition systems
• 2+ years of experience designing electrical, mechanical, or control systems
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Stand: Up to 10 hours per day
• Sit: Up to 10 hours per day
• Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 10 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 10 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: Up to ≤ 50 lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 6 hours per day
• Kneel/Crouch: Up to 10 hours per day

Nice to have

• Occupational trade school qualification in an instrumentation or electrical-based field
• Knowledge of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety), NFPA 79, and UL508A codes
• Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal
• Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and human spaceflight
• Strong work ethic and drive to succeed as part of a high-functioning team
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a fast-paced, challenging work environment
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity, independently drive project progress, and manage multiple priorities
• Knowledge of high-reliability processes and related documentation practices
• Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot data acquisition and control hardware
• Fundamental understanding of engineering principles behind electronic equipment, instrumentation, and commonly used industrial equipment

Before you apply

• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required autho
• May be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm capabilities, which may include a medical history review

About the company

SpaceX is developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. The company was founded on the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not.