Manager, Equipment and Automation Engineering; Starlink

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.

• 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 lead 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 here.

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 Affidavit Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to