Automation & Controls Specialist (Facilities Infrastructure)

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS SPECIALIST (FACILITIES INFRASTRUCTURE)

SpaceX is committed to developing revolutionary space technology, with the ultimate goal of enabling people to live on other planets. The Facilities Infrastructure Automation & Controls Specialist will support the development, design, construction, operation and maintenance of Building Automation Systems (BAS).  These systems serve site infrastructure that supports spacecraft preparation, data centers, hangars, office space and Environmental Control Systems (ECS) for payloads. 

The Automation and Controls Specialist role is a system-focused, multi-faceted position. The specialist will be responsible for owning, installing and commissioning of new automation assets, panel builds, and drawing updates. Additionally, the Automation and Controls Specialist will be responsible for implementing long-term reliability improvements to building automation systems. This role provides operational support in the review and interpretation of data collected on these systems. Specialists commission and integrate physical hardware including but not limited to wire harnesses, PCBs, custom enclosures, PLCs, BAS controllers, I/O sensors, actuators, and relays, data acquisition systems, and pneumatic systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Own and hands-on execute building automation projects, in collaboration with engineers, specialists, and technicians from different groups
• Develop and upgrade data acquisition and control systems
• Provide technical support and guidance for controls technicians and other non-controls engineering groups
• Lead technicians and/or contractors efficiently
• Commission new hardware
• Actively perform continuous improvements for team processes, quality, faster build times, lower maintenance needs, project kitting, streamlined communication between teams, and feedback loops
• Perform daily task prioritization including risk mitigation on current and upcoming projects
• Draft and redline drawings in electrical and fluids schematics
• Be a liaison, in design stage and during builds, between engineering and automation & controls for controls hardware mounting and overall cable management
• Program BAS controllers, PLCs and HMIs according to engineering design
• Analyze data to assess the function of mechanical and electrical systems
• Assist in the design and analysis of experiments to evaluate test articles
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of experience in a controls technician or specialist role

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Occupational trade school qualification in an instrumentation or electrical-based field
• Knowledge of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety), NFPA 79 & UL508A codes
• Strong background in HVAC controls of chilled water plants, airside HVAC, clean rooms, and data centers
• Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal
• Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and human spaceflight
• Strong work ethic and drive to succeed as part of a high-functioning team
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity, independently drive project progress, and manage multiple priorities
• Knowledge of high-reliability processes and related documentation practices
• Experience in programming PLC and HMI
• Demonstrated ability to design, implement and troubleshoot data acquisition and control hardware
• Fundamental understanding of engineering principles behind electronic equipment, instrumentation, and commonly used industrial equipment
• Select and size electrical and electromechanical components such as valve and damper actuators, controllers, and VFDs
• Experience designing and installing instrumentation and control systems in hazardous areas (NFPA 70 Section 500 installations); Class 1, Division 1 and Division 2 environments or IEC equivalence
• Experience tuning PID controllers
• Experience with electrical power distribution, working knowledge of NFPA 70 and NFPA 70E
• Experience with mechanical fluid distribution, working knowledge of ASHRAE Standards 55, 62.1, 90.1, 180, 202
• Experience with connectorization standards such as IPC-620, NASA 8739.4, and D38999 specifications
• First-hand experience with programming and software development
• Experience with industrial bus protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, Profinet and EtherNet/IP
• Hands-on experience activating, building, and troubleshooting analog electronic systems
• Process integration and electromechanical/mechatronic systems experience
• Exposure to C/C++, Python, and JavaScript
• Experience with JCI Metasys, ALC WebCTRL, Delta Entelliweb, Siemens, Trane controls

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings
• Ability to work at elevated heights (200+ feet)
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as climbing up and down stairs and/or ladders regularly throughout the day
• Ability to lift light weight supplies or materials (up to 25lbs unassisted)
• Available to work overtime and weekends when needed based on site operational needs; flexibility required
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, flashing lights, heat, cold, rain, and noise
• Occasional travel to other SpaceX or 3rd party facilities, up to 25%

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:                  

Pay range:      

Automation & Controls Specialist/Level 1: $30.00 - $38.00/hour       

Automation & Controls Specialist/Level 2: $34.00 - $43.00/hour       

Automation & Controls 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.