Manager, Equipment and Automation Engineering; Starlink
Listed on 2026-05-19
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Engineering
Electrical Engineering, Robotics
Space
X 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 Space
X is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
As the Manager of Equipment and Automation Engineering, you will lead a team responsible for designing, developing, and implementing advanced automation systems and manufacturing equipment to support high-volume solar cell production. You will drive innovation in equipment reliability, throughput, and scalability while ensuring safety and quality standards are met. This position demands a hands‑on leader passionate about rapid iteration and problem‑solving in a fast‑paced, high‑stakes environment.
RESPONSIBILITIES- Lead a team of multi-disciplinary engineers spanning the design, procurement, installation, and optimization of solar cell manufacturing equipment and automation
- Collaborate with production, process engineering, and supply chain teams to identify equipment needs and develop solutions that improve yield, reduce cycle times, and minimize downtime in satellite manufacturing lines.
- Oversee the full lifecycle of equipment projects, from concept through commissioning, including budgeting, vendor management, and root‑cause analysis for failures.
- Implement data‑driven improvements using tools like PLC programming, SCADA systems, and IoT sensors to enable predictive maintenance and real‑time monitoring.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., ISO, SEMI) and Space
X safety protocols, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing. - Mentor and develop team members, conduct performance reviews, and hire top talent to build a high‑performing engineering group.
- Travel as needed (up to 20%) internationally
- Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline
- 5+ years of experience in equipment engineering or automation, with at least 2 years in a project leadership or management role
- Proven track record of delivering complex automation projects in a high-volume manufacturing environment (e.g., semiconductors, automotive, or aerospace)
- Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant engineering discipline
- Experience in the aerospace or satellite manufacturing industry
- Experience with the equipment and support systems used to manufacture solar cells
- Strong knowledge of automation technologies, including robotics (e.g., FANUC, ABB), motion control systems, and CAD software (e.g., Solid Works, AutoCAD)
- Experience with equipment qualification, validation, and troubleshooting in cleanroom or controlled environments
- Proficiency in programming for automation (e.g., Structured Text, Ladder Logic, C++) and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW)
- Demonstrated ability to manage budgets exceeding $10M and leading multidisciplinary teams in agile development cycles
- Excellent communication skills, with experience presenting technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders
- Passion for space exploration and alignment with Space
X's mission to make life multi‑planetary
- Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
- 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
Space
X is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Space
X 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 Space
X’s Affidata Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to
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