Die Bonding Specialist, Silicon Assembly (Starlink)

Die Bonding Specialist, Silicon Assembly (Starlink)

Bastrop, TX

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.

One of the most ambitious missions that SpaceX has undertaken to date, the Starlink satellite constellation, is our solution to providing reliable internet to the entire world. In true SpaceX fashion, Starlink is taking the next step in vertical integration by bringing integrated circuit packaging and assembly in-house for development and manufacturing. You will work closely with IC packaging engineers, test engineers, equipment manufacturers, and leadership.

The success of Starlink depends on the quality, reliability, cost, manufacturability, throughput, and security of the products that you deliver. If you seek a fast-paced, dynamic environment; if you thrive on solving difficult problems where resolutions have high impact; and if you love the challenge of building something from scratch, then this role will be an ideal next career step.

Responsibilities:

• Operate and program die bonding equipment, including automated pick-and-place systems, epoxy dispensers, flip-chip bonders, and eutectic die attach tools, to achieve accurate die placement with micron-level precision and minimal tilt
• Develop and optimize bonding recipes by adjusting parameters such as dispense volume, cure temperature, pressure, and reflow profiles to ensure void-free bonds, strong adhesion, and thermal reliability
• Perform in-process inspections using tools like confocal scanning acoustic microscopy (C-SAM), X-ray imaging, and shear testers to evaluate bond quality, alignment accuracy, and defect rates such as delamination or voids
• Troubleshoot process variations, equipment downtime, and material incompatibilities through root cause analysis, implementing corrective actions to improve cycle time and first-pass yield
• Collaborate with engineers cross-functionally to integrate die bonding into the full packaging flow, supporting qualifications for new die sizes, substrates, or new product introduction (NPI) for advanced packaging formats
• Document process data, generate reports on key metrics, participate in design of experiments (DOE) for material and process enhancements/improvements in yield/efficiency & uptime
• Maintain cleanroom standards, including ESD protection, adhesive handling protocols, and safety procedures for high-temperature bonding operations
• Support inventory control for bonding materials (e.g., epoxies, solders, fluxes) and assist in tool qualifications and preventive maintenance schedules

Basic Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 3+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment; OR bachelor's degree in an engineering, math or science discipline

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering, math or science discipline
• 6+ years of hands-on experience in semiconductor die bonding or die attach processes within a packaging or assembly environment
• Proficiency with die bonding techniques, including conductive adhesives, solder reflow, and ultrasonic methods, with knowledge of material interactions and thermal management
• Familiarity with data analysis and process control tools (e.g., Excel, SPC software) for yield tracking and variability reduction
• Ability to work in a shift-based cleanroom, including nights and weekends, with excellent manual dexterity for fine assembly tasks
• Strong commitment to quality and safety in a high-volume, precision-driven setting
• Experience with advanced die bonding for heterogeneous integration, such as chiplets, fan-out wafer-level packaging (FOWLP), or high-power devices
• Certification in semiconductor packaging (e.g., SEMI, IPC standards)
• Background in lean manufacturing, failure analysis (e.g., PFMEA), or integration with manufacturing execution systems (MES) for real-time process monitoring

Additional Requirements:

• Must be able to work all shifts and be willing to work overtime and/or weekends as needed
• Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position
• Must be able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted

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 reach out to View email address on click.appcast.io.