Supplier Development Engineer, SMT (Starlink)

• ◆Lead supplier qualification, development, and ongoing performance management for SMT and PCBA manufacturing processes to ensure compliance with SpaceX quality standards and production timelines.
• ◆Drive NPI activities for new SMT lines, including process validation, equipment selection, and yield optimization at supplier facilities around the world.
• ◆Identify and resolve manufacturing defects, process inefficiencies, and quality issues in SMT assembly, such as solder paste application, component placement, reflow soldering, and automated optical inspection (AOI).
• ◆Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for production failures, utilizing tools like PFMEA, DOE, and SPC to improve process capability and reduce defects per million opportunities (DPMO).
• ◆Collaborate with SpaceX design, manufacturing, and quality teams to incorporate DFM/DFA feedback into supplier processes
• ◆Travel to supplier sites (up to 50%) to audit facilities, oversee ramp-ups, and provide on-site technical support for high-volume SMT production.
• ◆Develop and maintain supplier scorecards, KPIs, and continuous improvement plans focused on cost reduction, yield enhancement, and supply chain resilience.
• ◆Support the transition from prototype to mass production, including capacity planning, equipment upgrades, and automation integration for SMT lines.
• ◆Ensure adherence to industry standards (e.g., IPC-A-610, J-STD-001) and SpaceX-specific

for mission-critical electronics.

• ✓Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a related technical field.
• ✓2+ years of experience in PCBA manufacturing, with a focus on SMT processes (e.g., screen printing, pick-and-place, reflow, wave soldering, and inspection).
• ✓Hands-on experience with SMT equipment from manufacturers such as Fuji, Panasonic, DEK, or similar, including programming, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

• ✓5+ years of experience in SMT engineering, including leadership roles in supplier development or process engineering for complex consumer electronics systems.
• ✓Expertise in advanced SMT technologies, such as fine-pitch components, BGA/CSP assembly, selective soldering, and high-mix/low-volume to high-volume transitions.
• ✓Experience with statistical process control (SPC), Six Sigma certification, or Lean manufacturing principles applied to SMT environments.
• ✓Knowledge of environmental testing and reliability standards for consumer electronics (e.g., vibration, thermal cycling).
• ✓Prior experience in the consumer electronics industry, particularly with high volume hardware assembly.
• ✓Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple suppliers and projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• ✓Proven track record in NPI and production ramp-up for high-volume electronics manufacturing, preferably in consumer electronics.
• ✓Strong understanding of PCBA failure modes, defect analysis, and quality control methodologies (e.g., 8D, Fishbone, Pareto).

• ✓Position is based in Bastrop, TX and requires being onsite - remote work not considered
• ✓Must be willing to work long hours and weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines
• ✓Ability to travel: Up to 50% work week travel may be required
• ✓Valid driver's license

ITAR

• ✓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 .

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