Materials Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

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 ofenabling human life on Mars.

MATERIALS ENGINEER SATELLITES (STARLINK)

At SpaceX were leveraging our rocket and spacecraft expertise to deploy Starlink the worlds largest and most advanced satellite constellation delivering fast internet to over 10 million users worldwide. We design build test and operate the full system from thousands of satellites to user terminals and software.

Were revolutionizing the launch market through rapid reusability and cutting-edge technology. As a Materials Engineer youll take a hands-on role in developing implementing and troubleshooting advanced material systems. Youll use your expertise experience and creativity to solve complex material selection and processing challenges as we scale Starlink for high-volume production.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Own the development scale-up qualification reliability testing and production stabilization of novel thermoset and thermoplastic polymer systems (adhesives sealants coatings rubbers plastics and injection-molded parts) for Starlink satellites and products applying deep process knowledge and expertise.
• Guide engineering production and supply chain teams on material selection testing analysis DFM requirements application processes and design allowables to deliver cost-effective robust solutions for harsh space environments.
• Lead root cause failure investigations acting as the subject matter expert (SME) for polymer failure mechanisms through hands-on laboratory testing of flight hardware and raw materials always driving to first principles.
• Champion innovation by solving high-ambiguity problems through rapid iteration (the algorithm) providing risk foresight in design reviews performing production walk-downs conducting ROI analyses and leading prototype-to-volume transitions.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to drive material and process improvements on current and next-generation products while mentoring team members on problem-solving technical judgment escalation and collaboration.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in materials science materials engineering polymer science chemistry physics or other engineering discipline.
• 1 years of experience characterizing testing and evaluating the performance of plastics elastomers and adhesives.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Masters degree or PhD in materials science materials engineering polymer chemistry physics or a related engineering field.
• Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills with genuine enthusiasm for the teams spirit of innovation in cutting-edge technology.
• Hands-on experience with polymer characterization techniques and equipment including SEM-EDS FTIR DSC TGA LFA DMA TMA rheometry optical microscopy and mechanical property testing.
• Familiarity with industry specifications for adhesives sealants coatings structural plastics and other non-metallic materials.
• Demonstrated track record of success in a fast-paced highly competitive environment.
• Strong ability to work autonomously communicate effectively and take extreme ownership of areas of responsibility.
• Broad knowledge of aerospace-grade polymeric and elastomeric materials and their processing.
• Deep understanding of failure modes in polymer materials.
• Experience with technical review of polymer processing and the interaction between process variables and final material performance.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willingness to travel to other SpaceX sites and/or vendors for significant or extended periods (up to 25%).
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs unassisted.
• Ability to stand/walk for long periods of time.
• Extended hours and weekend work may be required to support critical project and mission milestones.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Level I: $100000.00 - $115000.00/per year
Level II: $110000.00 - $135000.00/per year

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