Sr. Power Systems Engineer (Starship)

Responsibilities

• Design, build, operate, and maintain the various microgrids that comprise Starbase, TX.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams; lead projects; and drive rapid, continuous improvements at Starbase launch sites.
• Be responsible for infrastructure upgrades to dynamically scale systems for Starship's production rate targets.
• Create and maintain sitewide power budgets, monitoring, and metering for mission-critical assets to optimize visibility and efficiency.
• Create and execute asset strategies for high-power launch and grid infrastructure.
• Develop and implement standardized designs for launch, propellant generation, and power delivery facilities.
• Perform detailed design on all aspects of electrical power systems: one-lines, three-lines, control/relaying schematics, wiring diagrams, SCADA, conduit/cable sizing/routing, grounding design, general arrangement, etc.
• Develop protective relay settings and schemes for high voltage equipment.
• Maintain organized design and asset documentation for all Starbase launch and power facilities.
• Ensure compliance with NFPA 70, 70B, 70E, NESC, and IEEE standards, prioritizing safety and engineering excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, or another engineering discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in power systems design, analysis, and build, with a focus on high-power, high-voltage systems.

Preferred Skills And Experiences

• 8+ years of professional experience in a similar role.
• Professional Engineering license or intention to actively seek PE license.
• Experience with power systems analysis software and tools: ETAP, SKM, EasyPower, PowerWorld, Matlab, PSCAD, PSEE, Simulink, etc.
• Experience performing basic load flow, short-circuit, arc-flash, coordination, and transient stability studies.
• Familiarity with industrial power systems up to 345 kV, including switchgear, transformers, BESS, VFDs, motors, distribution systems, UPS/emergency backups, power generation, relaying, metering, protective devices, and networking.
• Familiarity with industrial communications protocols and networking: Modbus, IEEE C37.115, IEEE C37.111, DNP3, etc.
• Experience with CAD software: Revit, AutoCAD, NX, etc.
• Demonstrated initiative, creative problem-solving, and strong analytical/engineering fundamentals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead teams, work independently, and thrive in dynamic, high-stress environments with tight deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills to prioritize, schedule, and implement solutions with minimal operational impact.
• Ability to quickly troubleshoot issues and support technicians hands-on.

Additional Requirements

• Perform hands-on work in all environments (heat, cold, rain), in tight quarters or at heights.
• Work extended hours and weekends as needed to support launch operations.
• Remain focused in hazardous environments while wearing appropriate PPE.
• Lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
• Provide 24/7 on-call support for emergencies.

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 EEOCompliance@spacex.com.