Manager, Machine Maintenance - Solar Cell Factory (Starlink)

We are seeking an experienced Machine Maintenance Manager to lead the ramp-up and sustained reliability of advanced production equipment and automation systems. This high-impact role offers the opportunity to build and shape the maintenance organization from the ground up while directly enabling SpaceX's ambitious vision for AI data centers in space.

- Lead and develop a high-performing team of maintenance technicians and engineers responsible for 24/7 reliability of advanced solar cell production equipment

- Develop and execute comprehensive maintenance strategies, including preventative, predictive, and corrective programs to achieve >95% equipment availability on critical lines

- Oversee rapid troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and permanent corrective actions for complex systems including vacuum deposition, chemical processing, and automation equipment

- Partner with Production and Facility Operations teams to integrate maintenance windows with factory schedules while minimizing impact on output targets

- Manage maintenance budgets, spare parts inventory, and strategic vendor relationships to optimize costs without compromising quality or reliability

- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and supporting rapid factory scaling

- Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, cleanroom standards, and regulatory requirements during all maintenance activities

- Foster a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and innovation to enable SpaceX's vision for AI data centers in space

- Bachelor's degree in engineering or STEM discipline; OR 5+ years of experience leading industrial maintenance teams

- 3+ years of experience working in a manufacturing/operations environment

- 2+ years of experience in a leadership position

- 8+ years of prior experience with semiconductor, solar, advanced automation, or other equipment maintenance and reliability programs

- Proven track record leading cross-functional teams in high-volume, fast-paced manufacturing environments under tight deadlines

- Hands-on experience maintaining solar cell production equipment, including thin-film deposition tools (PECVD, sputtering systems, etc.)

- Strong knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems in highly automated production environments

- Proficiency in Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) and data analytics tools for equipment reliability

- Strong familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, total productive maintenance, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement methodologies

- Demonstrated ability to scale maintenance programs in high-growth manufacturing environments, ideally in renewable energy aerospace

- Deep understanding of cleanroom protocols and safe handling of pyrophoric and toxic gas systems during maintenance

- Ability to lead and execute effectively in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards of quality and safety

- 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 willing to work all shifts, extended hours, and weekends as needed

- 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.

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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 .