Automation & Controls Engineer (Starlink) at SpaceX in Redmond, WA

Summary: SpaceX is focused on developing technologies for human life on Mars, and they are seeking an Automation & Controls Engineer for their Starlink team. The role involves designing and implementing automation projects, writing and debugging PLC code, and ensuring manufacturing efficiency through innovative control systems. Responsibilities: - Design, build, qualify and implement projects spanning machine design, robotics and manufacturing processes from initial ideation to production use - Architect, write, and debug PLC code - Implement vision systems for robotic guidance, quality control and data collection - Design systems to control processes, track factory performance and collaborate across teams to increase manufacturing efficiency in a data driven way - Design user interfaces that make complex machines easy to use and troubleshoot - Create electrical, pneumatic and fluid schematics for control panels - Keep our factories safe by implementing ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant systems Required Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or another STEM discipline - 1+ years of experience in the design and commissioning of automation and control systems in a manufacturing environment (internships and project work are applicable) - Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed Preferred Qualifications: - Proven ability to solve complex problems with simple solutions and little supervision - Excited by a fast-paced environment, strong desire and ability to learn quickly and adapt - Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal - Hands-on experience with at least one of the specific disciplines below and interest in learning the other areas you are not yet strong in - Industrial Automation - Automation Hardware: PLC's, COTS Robots, servo motion, machine vision, distributed IO, pneumatic controls, etc - Field Bus Networking protocols: EtherCAT, PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU, etc - Machinery and processes: dispenser, pick and place, fastener installation, automated bonding, thermo-compression, soldering, ultrasonic welding, temperature & position control, injection molders, die casters, etc. and design for manufacturing - Applied Statistical Process Control and other data tools (descriptive, inferential, regression, correlation) to improve manufacturing processes - Safely testing and commissioning integrated systems - Software - PLC programming, preferably Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text, state machines, applying Object Oriented Programming to mechanical assemblies, electrical systems, sensors, pneumatics/hydraulics, etc - Robotics programming, preferably ABB Rapid - HMI, SCADA, IoT (MQTT, OPC-UA), SQL, C#, .NET, Python - Industrial machine vision, Cognex Vision Pro preferred, Halcon & OpenCV acceptable - Electrical - Electrical sizing of motors, cables, circuit protection, VFD's, motor starters, various other motion systems - Design of fail-safe electrical circuits using both safety logic controllers and safety-rated relays - Hands-on experience troubleshooting industrial electrical systems using tools like multimeters, oscilloscopes, EMI probes - Proficiency in understanding and creating electrical schematics and single line diagrams (EPLAN preferred) - Analog signal integrity and EMI reduction - Hands-on experience designing and commissioning high quality electrical panels and electro-mechanical systems with appropriate safety considerations in mind - Knowledge of NEC, NFPA, UL508A codes with ability to ensure compliance with control system safety standards Required Skills: Automation, control systems design, PLC programming, Robotics programming, Machine vision systems, Industrial automation hardware, Field bus networking protocols, Statistical process control, Electrical system design, Electrical troubleshooting, Electrical schematics, Safety standards compliance Benefits: Long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, Potential discretionary bonuses, Ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, 401(k) retirement plan, Short and long-term disability insurance, Life insurance, Paid parental leave, Various other discounts and perks, 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10 or more paid holidays per year, 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