Test Specialist (Starshield)

TEST SPECIALIST (STARSHIELD) 

The Test Specialist role is responsible for supporting the initial bring-up and future production of Starshield satellites. This includes designing tooling (electrical checkout racks, vehicle harnessing, DAQ setups etc.) and processes (vehicle checkout software, harness/component integration, troubleshooting procedures, etc.) to build Starshield vehicles at a continually increasing cadence rapidly. Test Specialists will be expected to contribute to daily production activities, including dispositioning and troubleshooting issues, providing feedback and basic test software (Python-based) improvements to reduce false failures and improve test coverage, designing first-article flight and GSE hardware, working with engineers to execute sub-system development testing, and aiding production technicians.  The Test Specialist will also occasionally provide support with setting up and executing vehicle-level qualification tests, including thermal vacuum chamber (TVAC), electromagnetic interference (EMI) and other design validation tests. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Collaborate with engineers to develop and document test procedures on both development and flight hardware
• Perform tests with engineers according to test procedures and automated test scripts while providing data and preliminary test results to derive a pass/fail criteria from each test
• Assist in the design and fabrication of hardware including: harnessing, test fixtures and server racks
• Troubleshoot and write rework instructions for failing hardware in both hardware in the loop (HITL) and factory environments
• Perform bringing up and configuration of Linux based servers for use in HITL and factory environments following standardized procedures
• Support satellite qualification testing by performing satellite operations using work instructions developed alongside engineers
• Fabricate and repair cable harnesses including: soldering, crimping, assembling connectors
• Support development of test automation software (Python) with guidance from engineering 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

• High school degree or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of experience working in a hands-on technical position or a bachelor's degree in an engineering field
• 1+ years of experience performing electronic testing and inspection using portable measuring devices 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Associate or bachelor’s degree
• 5+ years of experience reading electrical schematics to rework boards or perform tests
• Experience with test operations procedures including thermal, vibration, thermal vacuum, shock and EMI (electrical magnetic interference) and safe handling of flight parts
• Ability to read electro-mechanical schematics to interpret test results and understand system functionality
• Ability to troubleshoot interconnected systems and determine root causes and implement fixes
• Experience installing and use test instrumentation sensors, such as: strain gages, deflection gages, pressure transducers, load cells, thermocouples, RTDs, accelerometers, and analog circuitry
• Strong computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Visio) and ability to navigate and manipulate files
• Experience with or interest in development of software in Python, and working with Linux based systems
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
• Ability to solve complex problems with minimal supervision on tight schedules
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed. 
  • Estimated start time: 1st shift (4am)
  • Certain reoccurring testing events require starting at 4am, flexibility for a later start at 8am on days without testing events is possible.
• Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching are generally required to perform the functions of this position
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:     
     
Pay range:     
Test Specialist/Level 1: $30.00 - $38.00/hour     
Test Specialist/Level 2: $34.00 - $43.00/hour     
Test Specialist/Level 3: $38.00 - $48.00/hour         

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.