Automation & Controls Engineer, Launch Hardware Production (Starship)
Core
Design, commission, and operate automation controls for Starship launch hardware production systems including a 24-lane Gigabay facility, industrial air separation units, and heat shield tile manufacturing.
Role type
Senior IC automation & controls engineer (manufacturing)
Builds
Production tooling, lifts, fixtures, factory services, air separation plants, and tile manufacturing lines for Starship
Domain
Aerospace manufacturing / Industrial automation
Required skills
PLC programming, industrial network protocols (Modbus, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP), instrumentation in classified/cryogenic service, data acquisition systems, mixed-signal electronics, schematic capture, PCB design, high-reliability build practices
Preferred skills
Commissioning process/factory equipment, troubleshooting industrial control hardware, sensor/valve/drive/analyzer knowledge, software development for data extraction, cost reduction design methods
Technologies
PLCs, Modbus, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, data acquisition systems, mixed-signal electronics, PCB design tools
Responsibilities
Design, build, and commission controls for Gigabay production tooling and factory services; bring air separation units online and maintain operation; own controls for heat shield tile manufacturing thermal processes; stand up new equipment from first power-on to rate production; develop and upgrade data acquisition and control systems; maintain operational capability of control-voltage electrical systems; turn sensor and PLC data into actionable information for operators; support controls technicians and other engineering teams; design hardware and work methods to cut cost and install time; analyze data to judge system health and drive changes
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC
