Automation and Controls Engineer, AI Satellites (Starmind)
Core
Design, build, and operate the manufacturing line for hardware enabling advanced on-orbit AI processing and data center workloads for SpaceX's Starmind satellite constellation.
Role type
Senior IC automation and controls engineer (factory manufacturing)
Builds
Custom compute electronics, memory, and networking hardware for orbital AI data centers
Domain
Aerospace / Industrial Automation / Satellite Manufacturing
Deliverable
production ML models | product features
Required skills
PLC programming (Beckhoff TwinCAT), HMI/SCADA design, electrical system design (NEC/NFPA/UL508A), robotics programming (ABB), field bus networking (EtherCAT, Profinet), electromechanical system integration, safety logic controller design, industrial troubleshooting, EPLAN schematics
Preferred skills
Creative problem solving in factory safety, motor sizing and circuit protection, fail-safe electrical circuit design, machine safety software implementation, IoT protocols (MQTT, OPC-UA), pneumatic/hydraulic system integration
Technologies
Beckhoff TwinCAT, ABB, EPLAN, EtherCAT, Profinet, Profisafe, Ethernet/IP, Ignition, MQTT, OPC-UA
Responsibilities
Design, develop, and manage automation projects from ideation to hand-off; Architect, write, and debug structured 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 regulations; Create simple HMI screens for machine operation and troubleshooting; Create schedules and budgets to motivate team achievement
Seniority
Mid-level, hands-on IC