Lead Operations Engineer (Special Programs)

Special Programs Operations Engineering team is looking for a Lead Operations Engineer to proactively steer stakeholders across the broader Starshield and Special Programs organization.

• →Lead a team of operations engineers to proactively identify production, engineering, and supply chain deficiencies and operational challenges within the organization. Determine root cause and develop appropriate solutions
• →Partner with key stakeholders across SpaceX to solve security, quality, delivery, and cost related challenges, understand root-cause of failures, and implement automated solutions to prevent recurrence
• →Provide updates to cross-functional groups and recommend strategic solutions for the broader business with a focus on scaling the growth of Starshield and Special Programs and rapid capability delivery
• →Address top priorities of the Starshield and Special Programs Leadership team function by monitoring and actioning impactful requests as well as driving success on strategic projects supporting national security objectives
• →Partner with software development resources to act as the product manager for secure software solutions tailored to special access programs, satellite production, AI use cases and engineering throughput
• →Develop a team of world-class operations engineering professionals by conducting regular 1:1s and collaborating on personal development plans for each member

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
• 2+ years of engineering experience in one or more of the following industries:
  • Manufacturing/production operations
  • Supply chain management
  • Military or defense operations
  • Aerospace or government contracting

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex information and draw actionable insights
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and concise research reports
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment in a fast-paced, high-tech environment
• Highly organized with a strong attention to detail
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines
• Active TS/SCI clearance, or ability to obtain one
• Highly collaborative with a great degree of emotional intelligence and maturity

• Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance
• Willingness to work in secure facilities (e.g., SCIFs) and handle classified information as required

• 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.