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.

SENIOR FAILURE ANALYSIS ENGINEER (STARLINK) 

SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world’s most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world’s largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to 4M+ users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system – thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink’s potential global impact. As we continue to upgrade and expand the constellation, we’re looking for best-in-class engineers to join the team.

The Senior Failure Analysis Engineer will interface with PCBA production, Supplier Development, Reliability, and EEE Piece Part groups. Familiarity with SMT manufacturing, EEE piece parts, and failure analysis equipment for both destructive and non-destructive analysis is required. Working directly in the Failure Analysis laboratory, this position will support the analysis of failures observed in production, determine the quality of the manufacturing process, and support investigations into nonconforming product.  The goal of the team is to support this analysis through all phases of product life-cycles, including build and test of pre-production, qualification, and flight hardware, as well as supporting existing production lines.  The ideal candidate is highly skilled in mechanical and electrical disciplines, hands-on, flexible, a quick learner, works well in a fast-paced environment, and possesses a can-do attitude.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Support destructive and non-destructive analyses during development and pre-production phases of hardware life-cycles, including pre-production, qualification, and flight hardware.
  • Support engineering in analysis of rework and recovery efforts on non-conforming hardware
  • Assist with analyses into piece part failures, as well as non-conforming material
  • Support efforts on First Article Inspection Reports
  • Provide targeted surge support for company critical analyses or qualification test efforts

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • BS in Material Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or other STEM discipline
  • 5+ years of experience in semiconductor, package, and/or PCBA reliability
  • 4+ years of work experience Failure analysis on semiconductor packages and devices

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • MS in Material Science or advanced degree in a related field
  • 10+ years of experience in semiconductor, package, and/or PCBA reliability
  • 7+ years of work experience Failure analysis on semiconductor packages and devices
  • Experience with non-destructive analysis techniques such as Visual Inspection, X-Ray, CT scan, SEM, CSAM, curve tracing, etc.
  • Experience with destructive analysis techniques such as Cross Section, Parallel Lapping and Polishing, dye and pry, and chemical decapsulation.
  • Experience with semiconductor analysis techniques OBIRCH, photo emission analysis, thermal emission analysis, etc.
  • Understanding of basic electronic theory
  • Some experience in electrical trouble shooting
  • Able to work independently and problem solve efficiently with minimal supervision
  • Able to stay organized with strong attention to detail
  • Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to lift 25 lbs. unassisted.
  • Must be comfortable working in tight spaces.
  • Must be comfortable using power tools like saws and sanders.
  • Must be comfortable using hand tools like awls, hammers, or shears.
  • Must be comfortable in handling corrosive chemicals using proper PPE
  • Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls.
  • Must be willing to work all shifts, over time, and weekends as needed.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 

Pay range:
Hardware Failure Analysis Engineer/Senior: $130,000 - $180,000

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. Non-exempt Washington employees are eligible for sick leave in accordance with Washington's Sick Leave policies.

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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.

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