Test Engineer (Avionics Test Lab) at SpaceX
Hawthorne, CA, United States
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.
TEST ENGINEER (AVIONICS TEST LAB)
The Avionics Test Lab is the last line of defense for testing and screening of all electronic hardware on our rockets and spacecraft including: flight computers, power conversion units, pressure transducers, gas sensors, analog and digital circuit boards, FPGAs, and communication system units. The Test Engineer will get to play a direct role in owning the success of this critical scope.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Owns flight hardware while in custody of space simulation testing laboratory and serves as primary point of contact for all testing related issues
Ensures all avionics flight hardware meets SpaceX and customer requirements at the conclusion of the testing process
Responsible for test readiness, resolving work stoppages, delegating associated tasks, and general progression of flight hardware through the testing process
Write automation software in Python to interact with units under test, test equipment, instrumentation, thermal chambers, and production documentation
Troubleshoots test failures to identify source of non-conformances including failures due to: software, test hardware, or device under test
Ideates and executes test laboratory process improvements related to specific hardware, software and general testing processes.
Drives improvements which allows the test laboratory to meet rate targets, maximize test resource utilization, minimize testing downtime, and assume additional hardware testing scope
Interfaces with other engineers, subject matter experts, and technicians to solve large-scale testing production challenges
Approves work instructions for operations performed at the testing laboratory. Writes and releases work instructions for any off-nominal operations
Troubleshoots laboratory testing hardware assets including thermal chambers and vibration tables
Troubleshoots test software and modifies code to adjust test parameters, output reports, fix minor bugs, and implement production improvements which do not require major changes to the software architecture
Understands functionality, design concepts, and bill of design requirements for responsible flight hardware
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in engineering field OR 8+ years of experience working in a test or production environment
1+ years of experience in hardware and/or software testing environment (university project experience will be considered)
Experience in any of the following languages: Python, C#, C++, Javascript, Visual Basic, MATLAB, and/or Labview
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
1+ years of experience working with environmental or vibration test equipment
Experience with test operations procedures including pressure/leak, thermal, vibration, thermal vacuum, and safe handling of flight parts
Ability to write and troubleshoot automation testing software
Subject matter expert level knowledge of Python or other programming language
Ability to troubleshoot programs and systems and determine root causes and implement fixes
Ability to install and use test instrumentation sensors, including: strain gages, deflection gages, pressure transducers, load cells, thermocouples, RTDs, accelerometers, and analog circuitry
Knowledge of and experience with avionics hardware including: pressure transducers, gas sensors, controllers, antennae, flight computers, cameras, transmitters, receivers, and PCBAs
Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
Ability to solve complex problems with minimal supervision on tight schedules
Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Physical effort including standing, lifting, and carrying equipment up to 25 lbs. unassisted
Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.
