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 times: 1st shift (8am)
• 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:    
Level 1: $30.00 - $38.00/hour    
Level 2: $34.00 - $43.00/hour    
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.