SpaceX

Principal Electrical Engineer

SpaceX$130K — $155K *
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field
  • 10+ years of experience in designing, building, or commissioning electrical systems
  • Experience with power distribution systems
  • Familiarity with relevant electrical regulations and standards (NEC, NFPA, UL)
  • Experience in industries like renewable energy, manufacturing, or commercial construction

Responsibilities

  • Lead electrical design for Starship launch pad systems
  • Design industrial electrical control panels and power distribution systems
  • Develop electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and construction documentation
  • Design electrical conveyance systems for launch pad installations
  • Coordinate with utilities for reliable power delivery
  • Support integration of electrical systems with high-power equipment
  • Provide real-time field support during construction and testing
  • Manage subcontractors and ensure compliance with safety standards
  • Perform electrical studies like load calculations and arc flash analysis
  • Design systems for hazardous launch pad environments

Benefits

  • Ability to work on groundbreaking space exploration projects
  • Opportunity to collaborate with skilled professionals in the aerospace industry
  • Potential for career advancement within a pioneering company
  • Hands-on experience in critical electrical systems for space applications
  • Involvement in fast-paced, innovative project environments
Full Job Description
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. a7 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. a7 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

About SpaceX

SpaceX is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Elon Musk. The company designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. SpaceX has developed the Falcon 1, Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Dragon spacecraft. The company was founded with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling the colonization of Mars. SpaceX has achieved several milestones in spaceflight, including the first privately-funded liquid-propellant rocket to reach orbit, the first privately-funded company to send a spacecraft to the International Space Station, and the first privately-funded company to send a human-rated spacecraft to orbit.
Learn more about SpaceX
Size
8,000 employees
Industry
Founded
2002

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