Mechanical Engineer, Laser Communications (Starlink)

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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 of enabling human life on Mars.

MECHANICAL ENGINEER, LASER COMMUNICATIONS (STARLINK)

The Space Laser team is responsible for developing laser communication terminals capable of communicating thousands of kilometers through space and being produced inexpensively at high volume for SpaceX’s Starlink communication satellite constellation. Engineers in this role are responsible for the development of mechanical, optical-mechanical and electro-mechanical assemblies employed in SpaceX’s laser communication terminal. Successful candidates will take on full product ownership from concept generation, design and analysis, development of production process and assets, as well as on orbit operation and reliability. Space Laser engineers conduct both computer-based engineering tasks and hands-on hardware assembly and testing.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Design and analysis of mechanical, electro-mechanical and optical-mechanical components for space rated laser communication terminals
  • Engineering tasks extend across product design, build process definition, and factory assets development
  • Conduct root-cause failure investigations and implement corrective actions across electrical, mechanical, and optical assemblies
  • Work with broader engineering to ensure solutions meet the requirements for on orbit constellation operation
  • Work to ensure solutions meet requirements for manufacturing processes quality and throughput targets, execute process improvements and/or design for manufacturability changes to enhance production efficiency
  • Coordinate and execute development, qualification, and acceptance testing of systems and tooling needed to meet hardware deadlines
  • Create CAD models and prints for flight parts as well as tooling
  • Employ appropriate computer bases analysis tools to inform design decisions

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or other engineering discipline
  • 2+ years of experience designing and analyzing mechanical, electrical or optical systems via professional work experience, project/research-based student experience or a combination of both

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • Leadership experience on a project or research team
  • Experience using test instrumentation and data acquisition systems
  • Experience developing production lines for electronic, mechanical, elctro-mech or photonic assemblies
  • Working knowledge of optical and photonic components, i.e. lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, etc.
  • Competence with optical test equipment (power meters, interferometers, laser sources, etc.)
  • Strong sense of accountability and integrity
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere
  • Knowledge of machining and manufacturing of small mechanical assemblies
  • Experience with GD&T concepts
  • Experience with NX CAD software or similar
  • Passion for advancing the commercial space industry
  • Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience with Zemax analysis software
  • Experience building or fixing mechanical, electo-mechanical or optical systems on a recreational basis.  We are looking for the individual who creates for no other reason than they want to

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Extended hours and weekend work as needed to support critical deliverables and testing operations
  • Travel to vendors and other SpaceX sites as needed

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

  • To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or 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 SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.