About this Principal Electrical Engineer role at SpaceX
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 [email protected].
