Manager, Equipment and Automation Engineering (Starlink)

MANAGER, EQUIPMENT AND AUTOMATION ENGINEERING (STARLINK)

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 SpaceX 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

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• 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
• Experience with automation projects in a high-volume manufacturing environment (e.g., semiconductors, automotive, or aerospace)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 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., SolidWorks, 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 SpaceX's mission to make life multi-planetary

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed