Materials Engineer, Metals (Starlink)

Redmond, WAfull time

On Site

$100k–$135k

H1B: no

SpaceX Materials Engineer, Metals (Starlink) at SpaceX responsible for materials selection, characterization, and manufacturing process support for metallic hardware on Starlink satellites. This role involves developing mechanical properties, performing failure analysis, and optimizing metal joining processes.

Responsibilities

Provide materials selection, characterization, qualification, and manufacturing process support for metallic and metal-joined (welded, brazed, soldered) hardware on Starlink satellites and ground infrastructure assemblies.
Develop mechanical and physical properties of metallic alloys and joints for the design community, including data, allowable, and process recommendations.
Perform root cause investigations and failure analysis using fractography, metallography, SEM-EDS, optical microscopy, and other characterization testing.
Develop, qualify, troubleshoot, and optimize metal joining processes (welding, brazing, soldering, sintering) used in production, including understanding of process variables and resulting material performance.
Provide technical review and advising for design efforts as it relates to material alloy selection, material & process specifications, fracture requirements, and design-for-manufacturability.
Collaborate with suppliers on qualification, property development, and issue resolution for custom-manufactured forgings, castings, and other metallic components.

Qualification

Bachelor’s degree in Materials ScienceMaster's or PhD in Materials ScienceExperience with failure analysis

Required

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Welding Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering or another materials-focused engineering degree
Experience with aluminum alloys used for structural and non-structural applications; metal alloys used in electronic applications; and metal-joining processes (welding, brazing, soldering, sintering).

Preferred

Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Welding Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or other related engineering discipline.
Experience with characterization techniques and equipment, including SEM-EDS, optical microscopy, hardness testers, mechanical property testing, and spectroscopy techniques for composition or phase.
Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills with enthusiasm for the team’s spirit of innovation in cutting-edge technology.
First-principles understanding of welding processes, weld strength testing methodologies, and standards used to make informed welding decisions.
Hands-on experience with metal-joining technologies (welding, brazing, soldering, sintering) in a high-production manufacturing environment.
Experience with failure analysis, materials testing labs, ASTM/NASA/AMS specs, or supplier management.
Experience with technical review of materials and processes and a sound understanding of the interaction between process variables and the resulting material performance.
Demonstrated track record of success in a rapidly growing, fast-paced, highly competitive, and scrappy entrepreneurial environment that operates under tight timelines and aggressive schedules.