Electric Propulsion Engineer (Mechanical), Starlink

Who you are

You have a strong background in mechanical engineering, with experience in designing and analyzing complex systems. Your expertise includes solving mechanical, thermal, magnetic, and fluid system problems, particularly in space-grade hardware. You are comfortable collaborating with cross-functional teams, including plasma physics experts and electrical engineers, to develop propulsion hardware such as thrusters and fluid feed systems. You have a proven track record of owning hardware from conceptual design through production and on-orbit operation, demonstrating your ability to manage the entire lifecycle of engineering projects.

You are skilled in using design software like SolidWorks and MATLAB, allowing you to create detailed models and simulations of propulsion systems. Your programming skills in Python enable you to automate tasks and analyze data effectively. You understand the importance of design for manufacturability (DFM) and are committed to creating elegant designs that minimize part counts and enhance performance metrics. You thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to contribute to innovative projects that push the boundaries of space exploration.

Desirable

Experience with propulsion systems or aerospace engineering is a plus, as is familiarity with fluid dynamics and thermal analysis. You are open to learning new technologies and methodologies that can enhance your work and the team's overall performance.

What you'll do

As a Mechanical Engineer on the Starlink electric propulsion team, you will take ownership of the design, analysis, testing, and production of propulsion hardware. You will work closely with various engineering disciplines to ensure that the propulsion systems meet the rigorous demands of space applications. Your responsibilities will include developing design criteria, collaborating on requirements, and driving system-level optimization to enhance the performance of the Starlink constellation.

You will rapidly iterate on designs and analyses to inform high-level systems trades and steer the overall product direction. Your role will involve conducting tests and evaluations to validate the performance of propulsion hardware, ensuring that it meets the necessary specifications for on-orbit operations. You will also be responsible for driving holistic DFM practices, focusing on reducing errors during fabrication and integration processes.

In addition to your technical responsibilities, you will participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss project progress and collaborate with other teams. Your insights will help shape the future of SpaceX's propulsion systems, contributing to the company's mission of enabling human life on Mars.

What we offer

At SpaceX, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to revolutionizing space travel and exploration. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, along with opportunities for professional growth and development. You will work in a fast-paced environment where innovation is encouraged, and your contributions will have a direct impact on the future of space technology. Join us in our mission to make life multi-planetary.