Test Specialist, Components (Starshield)

TEST SPECIALIST, COMPONENTS (STARSHIELD)

Starshield leverages SpaceX’s Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on three areas: Earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads. Designed to meet diverse mission requirements, Starshield satellites are capable of integrating a wide variety of payloads, offering unique versatility to users. With the proven ability to iterate rapidly, SpaceX’s unique full-stack approach in developing end-to-end systems, from launch vehicles to user terminals, enables the deployment of capabilities at scale with unprecedented speed. Starshield’s proliferated low-Earth orbit architecture provides inherent resiliency and constant connectivity to on-orbit assets, while SpaceX’s proven rapid launch capability provides expedient and economical access to space.

The Test Specialist role is responsible for supporting the initial bring-up and future production of Starshield satellites. This includes designing tooling (electrical checkout racks, vehicle harnessing, DAQ setups etc.) and processes (vehicle checkout software, harness/component integration, troubleshooting procedures, etc.) to build Starshield vehicles at a continually increasing rapid cadence. Test Specialists will be expected to contribute to daily production activities, including dispositioning and troubleshooting issues, providing feedback and basic test software (Python-based) improvements to reduce false failures and improve test coverage, designing first-article flight and GSE hardware, working with engineers to execute sub-system development testing, and aiding production technicians. Test Specialists will also occasionally provide support with setting up and executing vehicle-level qualification tests, including thermal vacuum chamber (TVAC), electromagnetic interference (EMI) and other design validation tests.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems
• Perform tests independently and with engineers, according to test procedures and design requirements
• Conduct first-level troubleshooting of test system errors by reading and interpreting test logs and measurement data
• Collaborate with engineers to develop and document test procedures
• Develop safety barriers, protocols, and control systems that protect humans from high-voltage testing hazards 
• Assist in the design of test fixtures, test setups, and test stands to be used for qualification and/or development campaigns
• Independently fabricate and build any of the following in accordance to the defined specifications:
  • Instrumentation including DAQ hardware and wire harnesses
  • Mechanical or fluid systems
  • High-voltage electrical systems
• Aid in efforts to uncover root cause of equipment failures and develop permanent resolutions of issues found during test operations
• Develop and document procedures and train operators for execution, maintenance, assembly, and anomaly handling
• Maintain the shop floor including floor stock, tooling, and ground support equipment 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering, math, or technical discipline; or high school diploma or equivalency certificate and 2+ years of professional experience in a hands-on engineering technician or specialist role

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

• 1+ years of experience performing electronic testing and inspection using portable measuring devices
• 5+ years of experience reading electrical schematics to rework boards or perform tests
• Ability to read and understand electromechanical schematics
• Knowledge of Ohm’s Law, power supplies, digital logic, ADC/DAC circuits, op amps, semiconductors, and communications protocols
• Ability to read mechanical assembly drawings and blue prints
• Experience developing, debugging, and deploying software that has been used in real world applications/projects (Python preferred)
• Ability to fabricate and repair electrical systems, including: Soldering, crimping, and assembling connectors/harnesses
• Experience in moderate to high-volume manufacturing
• Excellent communication skills
• Knowledge/experience with high voltage systems (AC and DC)
• Knowledge/experience working with electrical components, data acquisition systems, and electrical harnessing

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Must be willing to work all shifts and available for overtime and weekends as needed
• Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position
• Ability to lift up to 25lbs, unassisted
• Ability to stand, climb, walk, and work with object overhead
• Willing to travel to other SpaceX sites and/or vendor sites as needed
• This position requires being onsite in Hawthorne, CA, remote work not considered

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:    
Test Specialist/Level 1: $33.00 – $39.00/hour    
Test Specialist/Level 2: $37.00 – $44.00/hour    
Test Specialist/Level 3: $41.00 – $50.00/hour    
    
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.