Sr. Mechanical Engineer, AI Satellites (Starmind)

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. MECHANICAL ENGINEER, AI SATELLITES (STARMIND)SpaceX is leveraging its experience deploying and operating the world’s largest satellite constellation to develop Starmind, a new constellation of satellites capturing solar energy in space to power low-cost, high-performance AI compute for Earth. Realizing this vision demands highly reliable, high performance mechanical systems including large deployable solar, large radiators, and in space fluid distribution. We will build these satellites at a scale that far exceeds even Starlink. We are seeking talented Mechanical Engineers to own the full lifecycle of the hardware that make Starmind possible.We will be developingLarge, fluid-based deployable radiatorBiggest deployable solar arrays flown on SpaceX satellitesPackaging at high volume for compute traysSatellite mechanisms + other high power satellite payloadsOptical and networking payloadsRESPONSIBILITIES:Own hardware from conceptual design through high volume production and on-orbit operation for the Starmind constellation Develop design criteria, collaborate on requirements, and drive system-level optimization Rapidly iterate on designs and analysis to inform high level systems trades and steer overall product direction Design for extreme high volume - drive holistic DFM to create elegant designs with a focus on piece part and process count reductions, error proofing at every step of fabrication and integration, and consistent performance and production metricsEstablish an efficient product lifecycle starting in the supply chain all the way through final integration that balances cost, complexity, and quality; work closely with partner teams to design and realize an efficient in-house production linePerform environmental and performance testing on hardware to validate analysis and demonstrate compliance to design criteriaOwn product delivery timeline through conception, design, assembly, and launchDemonstrate extreme ownership of product outcomes at every stage of development and production BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline Experience with CAD and FEA software packages 5+ years of professional experience with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturingPREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline5+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis5+ years of hands-on experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team leadProficient in 3D CAD (NX preferred)Solid understanding and application of GD&TDemonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systemsPrior ownership of a complex component or assembly from initial design through high-volume production rampSelf-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTSAbility to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission critical deadlinesSome travel may occasionally be requiredITAR 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 View email address on us.fitly.work.