Mechanical Engineer, Satellite Payload (Starlink) at SpaceX · Redmond

Summary: 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. The Mechanical Engineer, Satellite Payload role involves solving complex structural, thermal, and electromechanical problems to support the design and production of the Starlink satellite constellation. Responsibilities: - Own hardware from conceptual design through high volume production (typical timeline of less than one year for full product life cycle) and on-orbit operation for the Starlink constellation - Develop design criteria, collaborate on requirements, and drive system-level optimization - Rapidly iterate on designs and analysis to inform high level systems trades and steer overall product direction - Drive holistic DFM to create elegant designs with a focus on piece part and process count reductions, error proofing at every step of fabrication and integration, and consistent performance and production metrics - Establish an efficient product lifecycle starting in the supply chain all the way through final integration that balances cost, complexity, and quality; work closely with partner teams to design and realize an efficient in-house production line - Perform environmental and performance testing on hardware to validate analysis and demonstrate compliance to design criteria - Own product delivery timeline through conception, design, assembly, and launch - Demonstrate extreme ownership of product outcomes at every stage of development and production Required Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline - Experience with CAD and FEA software packages - 1+ years of professional experience (including internships) with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing - Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support mission critical milestones Preferred Qualifications: - Master's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline - 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis - 2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team lead - Proficient in 3D CAD (NX preferred) - Solid understanding and application of GD&T - Experience working with PCB, RF, and/or Antenna designers and exposure to PCB layout and PCBA mechanical design - Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems - Prior ownership of a complex component or assembly from initial design through high-volume production ramp - Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills - Knowledge of and experience in selecting materials, manufacturing methods, and surface treatments for mechanical components - Proficiency in one or more programming language - Experience with design of experiments, statistical process control, and process qualification - Specific expertise applicable to any of the above sub-teams Required Skills: Mechanical Design, Electromechanical Design, CAD Software, FEA Software, 3D CAD, NX CAD, GD&T, Structural Analysis, Failure Modes Analysis, PCB Mechanical Design, RF Design, Antenna Design, Material Selection, Manufacturing Methods, Surface Treatments, Programming Languages, Design of Experiments, Statistical Process Control, Process Qualification Benefits: Long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, 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