Sr. Facilities Engineer, Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)

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.

SR. FACILITIES ENGINEER, SOLAR CELL FACTORY (STARLINK)

At SpaceX, we are building the next generation of space infrastructure to enable large-scale AI data centers in orbit. These orbital AI platforms require massive amounts of reliable, high-efficiency solar power to support intensive computing workloads in space. To make this possible, we are standing up one of the largest solar cell manufacturing facilities in the world. We are seeking a Sr. Facilities Engineer to oversee the maintenance, performance, and continuous improvement of facility systems (power, ultrapure water, exhaust, bulk gases) that support high-volume solar cell manufacturing. This high-impact role offers the opportunity to build and shape the organization from the ground up while directly enabling SpaceX’s ambitious vision for AI data centers in space.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Oversee the maintenance, performance, and continuous improvement of facility systems including power distribution, ultrapure water, exhaust systems (acidic, caustic, harmful gas, VOC, and general heat), bulk gases, chilled water, and process cooling systems that support high-volume solar cell manufacturing

Collaborate with engineers, technicians, production teams, and leadership to maintain systems in peak operating condition and develop detailed work instructions for preventative maintenance to ensure zero unplanned interruptions

Monitor and optimize utility systems supporting wet chemistry texturing, PECVD, PVD, metallization, and cleaning processes

Perform failure assessments, root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions for facility systems

Ensure work and materials comply with manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and all applicable safety, environmental, and building regulations

Read and interpret P&IDs, schematics, OEM manuals, and construction drawings for assembly, repair, and optimization

Present equipment and system performance statuses to internal customers and leadership

Track and resolve electronic work tickets, manage priorities with minimal guidance, and take on additional responsibilities as needed

Drive continuous improvement initiatives for reliability, uptime, yield, and cost in a high-volume production environment

Operate forklifts, scissor lifts, boom lifts, and other equipment as required

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, chemical, or related engineering discipline

5+ years of professional experience in facilities engineering or sustaining engineering for a manufacturing environment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

7+ years of experience with cleanroom facility systems, ultrapure water, exhaust abatement, bulk gas delivery, and/or process utility systems supporting semiconductor or solar manufacturing

Knowledge of high-pressure gases, flammable gases, hazardous chemicals, and associated safety systems

Proficiency reading and interpreting P&IDs, schematics, and technical drawings

Experience with continuous improvement, root cause analysis, and implementing preventative maintenance programs

Ability to troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and controls systems down to the component level

Familiarity with commercial building codes, OSHA, EPA, and NFPA standards

Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment balancing multiple projects

Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and computerized maintenance management systems

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to travel internationally (20%)

Ability to stand up to 6 hours, lift up to 25 pounds unassisted, and maneuver around equipment in a factory setting

Ability to work in industrial environments with fumes/odors, noise, hazardous chemicals, and confined spaces

Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

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 .

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 reach out to [email protected] .