Automation & Controls Engineer (Starship)
Core
Design and integrate automated cells, safety logic systems, and motion-controlled systems to increase Starship rocket production and reliability.
Role type
Automation and Controls Engineer
Builds
Automated manufacturing cells, safety logic systems, and motion-controlled systems for the Starship rocket production line.
Domain
Aerospace manufacturing / Industrial automation
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | infrastructure
Required skills
PLC programming (Siemens SIMATIC), HMI development (WinCC), SCADA systems, robotics programming (ABB), electrical system design, motion system sizing, CAD design (Siemens NX), fieldbus networking (EtherCAT, Profinet), safety logic implementation, industrial software integration.
Preferred skills
Quick iterative design experience, complex problem solving with simple solutions, cross-functional communication, creative engineering approaches, mechanical design for manufacturability, electrical troubleshooting, knowledge of manufacturing processes.
Technologies
Siemens SIMATIC, WinCC, Inductive Automation Ignition, MQTT, OPC-UA, Siemens G120/S120/S210, EPLAN, Teamcenter, ABB robotics, EtherCAT, Profinet, Ethernet/IP.
Responsibilities
Design and manage automation projects from ideation to hand-off; architect, write, and debug PLC code for high-volume manufacturing; implement ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant safety systems for robots and conveyors; design electrical systems compliant with NEC, NFPA, and UL508A; create user-friendly HMI screens; develop schedules and budgets.
Seniority
Entry to Mid-level (1+ years experience required)