How much experience is required?

At least 10 years of relevant experience for this Principal Electrical Engineer role.

What's the tech stack?

Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: Electrical Engineering, Electrical Systems, Hazardous Locations, electrical control panels, electrical schematics, motor control.

What seniority level is this role?

SpaceX targets principal-level candidates for this position.

Is this full-time or contract?

Full-time for this Principal Electrical Engineer role at SpaceX.

Principal Electrical Engineer at SpaceX

Joblaze summary

The Principal Electrical Engineer at SpaceX is responsible for leading the design of electrical systems for Starship launch pad operations, focusing on power distribution and motor control. This role requires expertise in industrial electrical control panels and compliance with various safety standards, alongside hands-on experience with high-power equipment and electrical schematics. Ideal candidates will have over a decade of relevant experience, particularly in fast-paced environments like industrial automation or renewable energy. The position demands strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to manage subcontractors effectively.

Joblaze insights

Listed 8 days ago on Joblaze — tracked directly from SpaceX's career page.
SpaceX has 2449 other open roles including Avionics Systems Engineer (Starship), Battery Engineer (Falcon & Dragon), Avionics Wire Harness Technician (Starship).
349 active Electrical Engineering roles on Joblaze right now.
49 active Electrical Systems roles on Joblaze right now.
22 active power distribution roles on Joblaze right now.
Typical Electrical Engineering salary we track runs $105,000–$160,000 (median $127,000, across 131 roles).

Quick facts

How much experience is required?: At least 10 years of relevant experience for this Principal Electrical Engineer role.
What's the tech stack?: Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: Electrical Engineering, Electrical Systems, Hazardous Locations, electrical control panels, electrical schematics, motor control.
What seniority level is this role?: SpaceX targets principal-level candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?: Full-time for this Principal Electrical Engineer role at SpaceX.

From the original posting

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.

PRINCIPAL ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Lead electrical design for Starship launch pad systems, including power distribution, motor control, and supporting infrastructure
Design industrial electrical control panels and power distribution systems in accordance with NEC, NFPA 79, and UL 508A standards
Develop electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and construction documentation
Design and specify electrical conveyance systems (conduit, cable tray, wiring methods) for both permanent and temporary pad installations
Coordinate with utilities and internal teams to ensure reliable power delivery to critical launch pad equipment
Support the integration of electrical systems with high-power equipment, motion systems, and instrumentation
Provide real-time field support during construction, activation, and testing to resolve design and installation issues
Manage electrical subcontractors, review work, and ensure compliance with design intent and safety standards
Perform electrical studies including load calculations, short circuit, and arc flash analysis
Design electrical systems for hazardous (classified) areas common to launch pad environments

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or other engineering discipline
10+ year of experience in the design, build, or commissioning of electrical systems (internship experience qualifies)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Experience designing or building electrical systems in any of the following industries: electric vehicles, solar or renewable energy, industrial automation, manufacturing, oil & gas, data centers, or commercial construction
Hands-on experience with power distribution systems
Familiarity with motor control centers, variable frequency drives (VFDs), transformers, switchgear, and grounding systems
Experience designing electrical systems for hazardous locations (Class I, Division 1 or 2 environments)
Working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC), NFPA 70E, and UL 508A
Experience performing power system studies (arc flash, coordination, load flow)
Ability to design and review electrical schematics and panel layouts
Experience supporting field installation and commissioning of electrical systems
Strong troubleshooting skills and comfort working directly with technicians and electricians
Experience managing electrical scope on fast-paced construction or integration projects
Familiarity with critical power systems (UPS, backup generators, automatic transfer switches)
Ability to work in high-stress environments with extended hours and tight deadlines

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to pass Space Force background checks for Cape Canaveral
Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, at heights, and in confined spaces
Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs unassisted
Must be willing to travel between launch sites as required

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.

Principal Electrical Engineer

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