Manager, Machine Maintenance - Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)
Bastrop, TXfull time
On Site
senior
H1B: no
SpaceX Machine Maintenance Manager at SpaceX leads maintenance teams ensuring 24/7 reliability of advanced solar cell production equipment. The role includes developing maintenance strategies and managing budgets to support factory scaling.
Responsibilities
Lead and develop a high-performing team of maintenance technicians and engineers responsible for 24/7 reliability of advanced solar cell production equipment
Develop and execute comprehensive maintenance strategies, including preventative, predictive, and corrective programs to achieve >95% equipment availability on critical lines
Oversee rapid troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and permanent corrective actions for complex systems including vacuum deposition, chemical processing, and automation equipment
Partner with Production and Facility Operations teams to integrate maintenance windows with factory schedules while minimizing impact on output targets
Manage maintenance budgets, spare parts inventory, and strategic vendor relationships to optimize costs without compromising quality or reliability
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and supporting rapid factory scaling
Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, cleanroom standards, and regulatory requirements during all maintenance activities
Foster a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and innovation to enable SpaceX’s vision for AI data centers in space
Qualification
Strong knowledge of electrical
Required
Bachelor’s degree in engineering or STEM discipline; OR 5+ years of experience leading industrial maintenance teams
3+ years of experience working in a manufacturing/operations environment
2+ years of experience in a leadership position
Preferred
8+ years of prior experience with semiconductor, solar, advanced automation, or other equipment maintenance and reliability programs
Proven track record leading cross-functional teams in high-volume, fast-paced manufacturing environments under tight deadlines
Hands-on experience maintaining solar cell production equipment, including thin-film deposition tools (PECVD, sputtering systems, etc.)
Strong knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems in highly automated production environments
Proficiency in Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) and data analytics tools for equipment reliability
Strong familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, total productive maintenance, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement methodologies
Demonstrated ability to scale maintenance programs in high-growth manufacturing environments, ideally in renewable energy aerospace
Deep understanding of cleanroom protocols and safe handling of pyrophoric and toxic gas systems during maintenance
