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.

SR. SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (STARLINK)

SpaceX is leveraging our experience building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world’s largest satellite constellation and most advanced broadband internet system. We provide reliable and fast internet to millions of users worldwide, including populations with little or no connectivity, rural communities, aircraft, watercraft, and places where existing services are unreliable, too expensive, or disconnected by natural disasters. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system, thousands of satellites and consumer antennae that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing. The Starlink team is seeking out the best-in-class professionals to maximize Starlink’s potential for communities and businesses around the globe.

This is a high-profile, cross-functional position that plays an integral role in enabling development and production flow of Starlink user terminals. You will work in close coordination with internal engineering and manufacturing departments as well as directly with suppliers to execute effective, creative, and smart supply chain strategies to achieve production goals. With integration taking place in-house, supplier development engineers are able to see their assemblies come to life every day!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Improve quality, cost, delivery, and capacity metrics for mechanical hardware used in Starlink user terminals
Collaborate with design, materials, and manufacturing engineers to gain an in-depth knowledge of piece part, assembly, metrology, and/or sub-system design intent
Support the procurement team to strategically source parts matched with supplier competencies by reviewing and assessing supplier manufacturing processes and quality systems
Create and define supplier technical and quality requirements based on customer and program requirements and expectations for NPI and production phases
Lead resolution of supplier quality issues through root cause analysis, while functioning as liaison between purchasing, engineering, production, and suppliers
Define product technical requirements, and ensure supplier compliance with these requirements
Implement and monitor the production part approval process (PPAP) with selected suppliers to enable rate production
Analyze supplier quality and delivery metrics to identify trends and pinpoint systemic performance gaps and root causes to drive supplier improvement plans
Conduct independent research to identify potential new suppliers and capabilities in manufacturing and metrology
Identify and drive product & process improvements to lower part cost, reduce supply risk, eliminate potential defects, and improve cycle time
Effectively manage mission-critical supply chain by establishing excellent working relationships and regular lines of communication with suppliers
Demonstrate a strong sense of ownership, proactivity, technical excellence, creativity, self-direction, and courage
Collaborate with teams, lead projects, and continuously drive improvement in the supply base

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
6+ years of experience in one of the following: Supply chain engineering, supplier development/quality, manufacturing, design engineering

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree in and engineering discipline, business, or supply chain
10+ years of experience in one of the following: Supply chain engineering, supplier development/quality, manufacturing, design engineering
Proven track record of taking ownership of projects, negotiating successfully to reduce costs, and influencing engineering customers to drive results
Knowledge of statistical techniques and methods (design of experiments, Six Sigma, etc.)
Proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GDT) principles and applications
Knowledge of metrology tools and techniques for measuring and characterizing mechanical parts
Knowledge of lean, production, and supply chain concepts
Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills
Ability to act quickly in a fast-moving and high-stress environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Position is based in Bastrop, TX and requires being onsite - remote work not considered
Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical deadlines
Ability to travel: Up to 50% work week travel may be required
Valid driver’s license

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

Sr. Supplier Development Engineer (Starlink)