Lead Materials Engineer (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 of enabling human life on Mars.

LEAD MATERIALS ENGINEER (STARLINK)

SpaceX is developing a low-latency, broadband internet system to meet the needs of consumers across the globe. Enabled by a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites, Starlink will provide fast, reliable internet to populations with little or no connectivity, including those in rural communities and places where existing services are too expensive or unreliable.

As a Lead Engineer within the Materials Engineering department, you will lead a technical team responsible for developing, qualifying, and implementing optimized material / process solutions across the Starlink satellite system, which align with programmatic goals for reliability, performance, and cost. This position includes leadership of the Redmond materials characterization lab and lab personnel.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead a team of engineers focused on rapid development and execution of material and process improvements for Starlink hardware (includes recruitment, effective resource allocation, performance evaluations, and growth management)
• Provide expertise and guidance to the engineering staff as it relates to materials selection, testing and analysis for electronic materials, polymers, coatings, joining/forming techniques, and space environmental effects
• Investigate opportunities for improving existing processes, equipment, and technology for attaining organizational cost reduction and continuous improvements
• Conduct and direct hands-on laboratory testing and rigorous failure analysis of flight hardware and raw stock materials
• Perform prototype process trials, materials analysis, and properties characterization
• Develop technologically advanced materials or processes that enhance product performance
• Work with external vendors to establish process control of existing designs and identify new opportunities for product development and improvement
• Be proactive and forward thinking with respect to team growth and department/company strategy

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in material science, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or physics
• 5+ years of professional experience with electronic materials, polymers, coatings, joining technologies (bonding, welding, brazing, soldering)
• 1+ years leading or mentoring technical team members

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master's degree or PhD in material science, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or physics
• Strong desire to mentor and develop team members
• Experience leading a technical team
• Experience in characterization techniques and equipment, including SEM-EDS, FTIR, DSC, TGA, LFA, rheometry, optical microscopy, hardness testers, cross-section sample preparation and mechanical property testing
• Demonstrated track record of success in a rapidly growing, fast-paced and highly competitive environment
• Experience with technical review of materials processing and a sound understanding of the interaction between process variables and the resulting material performance
• Hands-on experience in a high-production manufacturing environment
• Personality and drive to execute in a scrappy entrepreneurial environment that operates under tight timelines and aggressive schedules
• Effective written and interpersonal communication skills
• Capable of interacting with and conveying concepts within all level of our organization

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:    

Pay range:    
Lead: $125,000.00 - $175,000.00/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, stock options, 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 o