Supplier Development Engineer, Mechanical Systems (Starshield)

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. SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER, MECHANICAL SYSTEMS (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use, Starshield is designed for government use, with an initial focus on earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads. The Starshield team is building highly reliable in-space mesh networks, designing secure systems to guarantee access to space, designing next-gen communication and sensing software, and more. RESPONSIBILITIES: Improve quality, cost, delivery, and capacity metrics for mechanical hardware used in the Starlink satellite and ground station systems Collaborate with design, materials, and manufacturing engineers to gain an in-depth knowledge of piece part, assembly, metrology, and/or sub-system design intent Support the procurement team to strategically source parts matched with supplier competencies by reviewing and assessing supplier manufacturing processes and quality systems Create and define supplier technical and quality requirements based on customer and program requirements and expectations for NPI and production phases Lead resolution of supplier quality issues through root cause analysis, while functioning as liaison between purchasing, engineering, production, and suppliers Define product technical requirements, and ensure supplier compliance with these requirements Implement and monitor the production part approval process (PPAP) with selected suppliers to enable rate production Analyze supplier quality and delivery metrics to identify trends and pinpoint systemic performance gaps and root causes to drive supplier improvement plans Conduct independent research to identify potential new suppliers and capabilities in manufacturing and metrology Identify and drive product & process improvements to lower part cost, reduce supply risk, eliminate potential defects, and improve cycle time Effectively manage mission-critical supply chain by establishing excellent working relationships and regular lines of communication with suppliers Demonstrate a strong sense of ownership, proactivity, technical excellence, creativity, self-direction, and courage Collaborate with teams, lead projects, and continuously drive improvement in the supply base BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in engineering 1+ years of experience in a manufacturing and/or process engineering role, or internship experience in engineering PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: Master's degree in engineering, business, or supply chain Proven track record of taking ownership of projects, negotiating successfully to reduce costs, and influencing engineering customers to drive results Knowledge of statistical techniques and methods (design of experiments, Six Sigma, etc.) Knowledge of lean, production, and supply chain concepts Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills Ability to act quickly in a fast-moving and high-stress environment Ability and willingness to obtain a Top Secret clearance ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: An active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions; if so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol Must be willing to work long hours and weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines Ability to travel: Up to 25-60% work week travel may be required Valid driver's license COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Pay range: Supplier Development Engineer/Level I: $95,