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.

MATERIALS ENGINEER, MATERIALS PROCESSING LABORATORY

The materials engineering team supports materials across SpaceX via identification, development, and implementation of advanced materials and processes. This role will be part of a team of engineers and process specialists developing new materials and processing solutions for different applications at SpaceX. The ideal candidate will be very hands-on and knowledgeable with materials processing and test equipment such as a rolling mill, Gleeble, torch testing, heat treating, arc-melting, cold-spray, plasma spray, machining, and/or 3D printing. This job is an opportunity to be part of the team developing advanced materials for the future of spaceflight.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work closely with product engineers to understand materials requirements for their applications, and with materials engineers to assess best in class approaches for metal processing
• Develop laboratory capabilities and analysis methods, and collaborate with vendors and external labs to augment internal capabilities
• Specify, design, install, commission and/or validate metal processing equipment
• Lead process development of developmental materials and processing techniques through parameter optimization, DOE experiments, and trials to support alloy design activities
• Develop an understanding of lab equipment, processes and systems, and support lab operations
• Design and build custom test systems to be used for material and hardware qualifications

 BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in material science and engineering, metallurgy, mechanical engineering, or physics
• 3+ years of experience in commissioning equipment and/or metals processing
• Demonstrated hands-on experience working with different equipment in a manufacturing and/or laboratory environment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Excellent team player, willing to work hard and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Has the capability to effectively learn how to operate and utilize new and complex lab equipment autonomously
• Experience with robot programming, robot studio, and ABB robots
• Mechanical component and/or tooling design experience using 3D CAD software
• Comfortable using fabrication equipment such as mills, lathes, saws, etc.
• Demonstrated track record of success in a fast paced and highly competitive environment
• Experience with applying materials processing techniques in support of materials development in addition to regular production testing support
• Personality and drive to execute in a scrappy entrepreneurial environment that operates under tight timelines and aggressive schedules
• Effective written and interpersonal communication skills. Must be capable of interacting with and conveying concepts within all level of our organization
• Strong academic foundation with an understanding of physical metallurgy

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Physical effort including standing, lifting, and carrying equipment up to 30 lbs unassisted
• Position may require long hours and weekend work
• Willing to travel for short trips as needed, up to 5% travel
• Ability to work in outdoor environments as needed
• Ability and willingness to work with chemicals utilizing proper personal protection equipment

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:             

Pay range:          

Materials Engineer/Level I: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year   

Materials Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00/per year

Your 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 and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and 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.