Process Engineer

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.

PROCESS ENGINEER (STARLINK/AKOUSTIS) - NIGHT SHIFT

Akoustis is now operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of SpaceX providing industry leading RF filters using patented XBAW technology to help drive the mission of making human life multi-planetary, while also connecting the world through Starlink. Our work helps further the impact that Starlink is already making on millions of users around the world, while allowing us to broaden that reach dramatically and continue connecting the unconnected here on earth.

This position supports RF filter production for SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet constellation and growing defense communications portfolio. An Akoustis Process Engineer sustains and monitors manufacturing processes to improve yield, quality, and efficiency.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Develop processes to improve efficiency and yield
• Analyze data, identify process deviations, and assist in root cause analysis to resolve issues
• Perform design of experiments to understand process mapping
• Recommend measures to reduce process variation and improve product quality and yield
• Assist operations and maintenance teams to maintain, qualify and troubleshoot process and equipment issues
• Ensure safety and quality protocols are followed
• Review work center SPC charts
• Document process specifications and OCAP’s
• Train operators and technicians

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or physics 
• 1+ years of experience with semiconductor fabrication processes or statistical process control (internship, extracurricular, or academic experience is applicable)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Advanced degrees in semiconductor or science-related fields such as material science, chemical or electrical engineering, microelectronics, nanotechnology, chemistry, or physics
• Proficiency with metrology and failure analysis techniques
• Proficiency in JMP statistical software, Microsoft Office Suite, and KLayout CAD software
• Strong written, verbal, and organizational communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to create detailed technical documentation and training materials
• Solid understanding of SPC, DOE, 8D, and risk/change management processes
• Experience leading cross-functional projects or tool installation programs
• Familiarity with high-volume manufacturing environments involving frequent product changeovers
• Experience in participating in quality audits and yield improvement initiatives

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work in a fast-paced cleanroom environment and address critical production issues
• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical milestones
• This position will sit 100% onsite in our Canandaigua, NY facility
• Aptitude to work as part of a team and also independently
• Due to the nature of production line bring-up, the work schedule for this position will evolve over time:
  • You will start with normal working hours (likely for the remainder of 2026)
    • Day Shift: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday - Friday)
  • You will transition to ONE of the shifts below (likely starting in 2027, start/end times subject to change)
    • C-Shift: 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM (Sunday - Tuesday and every other Wednesday) – eligible for 15% shift differential
    • D-Shift: 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM (Thursday - Saturday and every other Wednesday) – eligible for 15% shift differential

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:             

Pay range:    
Process Engineer/Level I: $100,000.00 - $140,000.00/per year    
Process Engineer/Level II: $115,000.00 - $170,000.00/per year   

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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].