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.

LAUNCH ENGINEER, DRAGON (INTERIOR & CREW OPERATIONS)

SpaceX is currently seeking talented individuals for a Launch Engineer position on the Dragon Maintenance team, focused on capsule interior, parachute system, and crew operations. As a part of the team, you will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience and creativity to develop novel solutions in human spaceflight manufacturing and re-usability. You will support the maintenance and testing of flight hardware across our fleet of Crew and Cargo Dragon capsules. You will also support launch pad operations for Crew astronauts, as well as cargo loading operations. You will have ownership of your work and team in all phases of maintenance. The role will also provide an opportunity to establish aircraft-like operations on Dragon as well as interface with engineering and production teams across the program.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Own engineering deliverables for the maintenance of capsule interior hardware, parachute system, and crew operations
• Identify, plan, and execute major process improvements across the capsule fleet to meet volume production demand
• Develop and refine integrated planning documents that are inclusive of varying hardware configurations and work scope
• Develop and refine inspection, repair/retrofit, assembly, system test requirements, and procedures based on lessons learned from both flight and ground operations
• Enable day-to-day execution on the shop floor through the resolution of technical issues
• Work closely with design engineers to evaluate designs for manufacturability and implementation in a rapidly evolving production environment
• Support day of launch operations for astronauts and cargo loading in Crew/Cargo vehicles
• Design and develop tools to improve capsule interior hardware processing and ensure product reliability
• Closely collaborate with engineering staff from other departments and highly skilled technicians on a daily basis
• Work with a government or commercial customer to fulfill contractual requirements for flight hardware refurbishment
• Manage and track multiple priorities while maintaining a focus towards common project goals
• Seek out the solutions to technical problems with the local team along with the larger SpaceX workforce

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, physics, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering or other engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience with hardware development, vehicle integration or refurbishment, manufacturing, pressurized systems, or operations (internship and project experience applies)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master's degree in mechanical, materials, or aerospace engineering
• 2+ years of industry experience (automotive, aviation or spacecraft manufacturing) working with composite structures and/or large mechanical assemblies
• Familiarity with test procedures and non-destructive evaluation of structural components
• Experience writing work instructions and procedures for critical hardware
• Mechanical component and/or tooling design analysis experience using 3D CAD software
• Experience with design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA)
• Experience transitioning complex products from R&D to rate manufacturing in a fast-paced environment
• Experience working on spacecraft or launch vehicles
• Acute attention to detail
• Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
• A positive, upbeat attitude
• The ability to perform work expectations and thrive in a high-stress environment
• Ability to work well in a team environment and communicate clearly and accurately with a wide range of people

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral
• Physical effort including standing, lifting and carrying moderately heavy materials or equipment (15 to 35 lbs.)
• Comfortable being trained to work around hypergolic propellants (MMH and NTO) and willing to work with hazardous materials
• Comfortable working at heights ~220 feet (inside the launch pad crew arm for vehicle access)
• Overall mental fitness with the ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment requiring prolonged mental concentration (under possible extended work hours)
• Occasional travel may be required
• Willingness to work outdoors
• 50 hour work weeks are typical, schedule varies depending on site operational needs, flexibility required

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:Pay range:Launch Engineer/Level I: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00/per yearLaunch Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00/per yearYour actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.

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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.