Project Manager

Manager, Facilities Operations - Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)At SpaceX, we are building the next generation of space infrastructure to enable large-scale AI data centers in orbit. These orbital AI platforms require massive amounts of reliable, high-efficiency solar power to support intensive computing workloads in space. To make this possible, we are standing up one of the largest solar cell manufacturing facilities in the world. We are seeking an experienced Facility Operations Manager to lead the central utility plant, infrastructure systems, and site services that enable high-volume solar cell production. This high-impact role offers the opportunity to build and shape the organization from the ground up while directly enabling SpaceX's ambitious vision for AI data centers in space.Responsibilities:Lead daily operations of the central utility plant, gas farm, chemical systems, and wastewater treatment infrastructure that enable 24/7 solar cell manufacturingOversee high-purity gas and chemical procurement, storage, distribution, and delivery systems while minimizing waste and ensuring uninterrupted supply to production linesManage critical building and environmental systems (HVAC, power distribution, plumbing, and exhaust) to maintain precise cleanroom conditions required for space-grade solar cellsDevelop and implement preventative maintenance schedules, operational procedures, safety training, and emergency response plans to guarantee facility uptime and risk mitigationLead and develop a team of facility technicians and operators, providing coaching and performance management in a high-reliability environmentCollaborate with Production, Machine Maintenance, and EHS teams to troubleshoot issues, integrate new processes, and support factory expansion as outputTrack and optimize key performance metrics including system uptime, utility costs, environmental compliance, and impact on production yieldDrive sustainable operations and regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA, NFPA, and local codes) while continuously improving cost efficiency and infrastructure reliabilityFoster a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and innovation to enable SpaceX's vision for AI data centers in spaceBasic Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in engineering or STEM discipline; OR 5+ years of experience leading facilities/utilities operations3+ years of experience working in a manufacturing/operations environment2+ years of experience in a leadership positionExperience managing central utility plants, gas/chemical systems, and/or general facilitiesPreferred Skills and Experience:Strong knowledge of central utility plants, gas farms, chemical distribution, and building systems (HVAC, electrical, pneumatic)Experience with environmental permitting, auditing, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory compliance in a factory settingExperience with solar cell production support systems, including pyrophoric gases, toxic chemicals, and wastewater treatmentExpertise in SCADA systems, PLC programming, and industrial automation for facility and utility controlFamiliarity with Six Sigma or similar process improvement methodologies applied to facility operationsProven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex infrastructure in high-stakes, high-growth manufacturing environmentsDemonstrated success working in dynamic environments with strict safety, environmental, and operational requirementsAdditional Requirements:Ability to travel internationally (20%)Ability to stand up to 6 hours, lift up to 25 pounds unassisted, and maneuver around equipment in a factory settingAbility to work in industrial environments with fumes/odors, noise, hazardous chemicals, and confined spacesMust be willing to work all shifts, extended hours and weekends as neededITAR 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 click.appcast.io.