About the role
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.
INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER (STARLINK)
As an Industrial Designer on the Starlink team, you’ll help shape the future of global connectivity by designing exceptional consumer products, services, and experiences that delight users worldwide. You’ll be hands-on at the intersection of design, manufacturing, and innovation, tackling complex technical challenges, optimizing production processes, and crafting compelling product stories that bring our vision to life.
You’ll champion the full design process: sketching, building digital and physical models, developing bold design themes, and driving seamless integration from concept all the way through to production.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Translate design strategy into bold, high-impact concepts that are both technically feasible and visually compelling
- Rapidly ideate, prototype, and iterate using 3D printing, hands-on mockups, and physical testing to drive fast learning cycles
- Solve ergonomic, mechanical, and usability challenges with elegant, refined design solutions that strengthen brand identity
- Deliver high-fidelity surface modeling, and renderings - from broad design themes down to intricate component details
- Provide design direction and critical feedback throughout all stages of product development
- Clearly communicate design decisions and actively support engineering and program milestones
- Collaborate closely with engineering and cross-functional teams to bring prototypes from concept through to fully functional hardware
- Continuously improve SpaceX's prototyping processes, tools, and capabilities to accelerate development and better support testing and operations
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in a design discipline (i.e. industrial design, transportation, product, architecture)
- 1+ years of professional experience in industrial/transportation design
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- 3+ years of professional experience as an Industrial Designer, with advanced proficiency in 3D modeling tools such as NX, Rhino, or SolidWorks
- Exceptional visualization, sketching, and graphic skills with the ability to quickly and convincingly bring ideas to life
- Strong technical knowledge of prototyping, manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques
- Highly skilled at transforming 2D concepts into clean, well-structured 3D models while managing large assemblies and design history
- Outstanding verbal and visual communication skills, able to clearly articulate and present complex design concepts to engineers, and leadership
- Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly integrated team environment with daily cross-functional collaboration
- Detail-obsessed with excellent aesthetic judgment, proportions, and design sensibility
- Self-motivated and organized, capable of managing multiple parallel projects while consistently delivering under tight deadlines
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Strong visual portfolio is mandatory for consideration
- This is not a remote or hybrid position and will require relocation if not already local to the Austin, TX area
- Position occasionally requires the ability to work extended hours, weekends and offsite when needed
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.
Aplyr's read
SpaceX is revolutionizing space travel with its ambitious goals and innovative technology, attracting individuals passionate about aerospace and engineering challenges.
What's promising
- •SpaceX has a clear mission to reduce space transportation costs significantly.
- •The company is a leader in reusable rocket technology, setting industry standards.
- •SpaceX offers diverse roles, from engineering to culinary management, indicating growth and operational complexity.
What to watch
- •High-pressure work environment with demanding deadlines can lead to burnout.
- •Frequent changes in project direction may affect job stability and focus.
- •Limited public information about long-term financial sustainability.
Why SpaceX
- •SpaceX is pioneering Mars colonization efforts, a unique long-term vision.
- •The company successfully integrates vertical operations, from manufacturing to launch.
- •SpaceX's Starlink project aims to provide global internet coverage, expanding its market reach.
Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?
About SpaceX
SpaceX is an aerospace manufacturer and space transportation company founded by Elon Musk. They are known for developing the Falcon and Starship rockets, with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling the colonization of Mars.
