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 PAD TECHNICIAN (STARSHIP)

We are currently looking for a Launch Pad Technician to maintain the launch pad mechanical and fluid systems in preparation for launch operations. These systems include hydraulics, high-pressure nitrogen/helium, and cryogenic systems.

In addition to the required experience below, our ideal candidate is someone who shows personal initiative, maintains their composure, and fosters a positive environment. In this role, it is important to be responsible, hardworking, and conscientious about the quality of work performed. The Launch Pad Technician will need to take the lead in making suggestions and not get discouraged along the way. Additionally, they will need to be able to produce high-quality work promptly while continually looking forward to needed process improvements, streamlining of work, and cost savings.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Fabricate and install fluid system components from a schematic or engineering drawing including, but not limited to, ball valves, check valves, pressure regulators, and pressure gauges.
• Troubleshoot operational issues found during the activation of fluid and mechanical systems.
• Work with a team of technicians and engineers to ensure every system is built with the highest level of quality to support 100% successful launch of a multimillion-dollar launch vehicle
• Operate heavy machinery including forklifts and aerial platforms
• Perform hands-on operations with both large and small fragile assemblies
• Perform maintenance tasks as required in a variety of roles for vehicle integration, pad maintenance, site preventative maintenance, general facilities, and any other general maintenance work to maintain an operational launch site (including corrosion control)

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of experience performing maintenance on mechanical or hydraulic systems

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience working on a rocket launch pad and directly supporting launch operations
• Experience in military aviation as a propulsion or airframe technician
• Experience using heavy equipment (overhead cranes, forklifts, and man lifts)
• Experience following detailed schematics and fabricating fluid panels from said schematics
• Knowledge of hydraulic/cryogenic systems and operations
• Experience explaining the differences between test setups: hydraulic vs. pneumatic vs. thermal and between sensors (load cells, differential pressure transducers, thermocouples, etc.)
• Experience maintaining and troubleshooting complex fluid and mechanical systems, including analyzing flow path and proper relief systems
• Experience routing tube in the field to a high level of accuracy
• Experience safely rigging and moving items under 20,000 lbs.
• Experience performing a hydro test and pneumastat on any component with little to no direction
• Experience operating and building a flush cart, proof cart, and leak check cart
• Experience working in a clean room environment
• Familiarity with calibrated measurement devices including load cells, multimeters, calipers, torque wrenches, depth gauges, and micrometers

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
• Ability to obtain respirator certification to apply ablative, paint, puck, and martyte
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, and working on ladders/lifts at elevated heights
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
• Willing to work in an environment with extreme outdoor conditions such as heat, cold, and rain
• Willing to work in an environment with exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Willing to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary – up to 10%.
• Ability to have physical dexterity flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters
• Willing to work overtime and weekends as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:            

Pay range:         Launch Pad Technician/Level 1: $18.00/hour      Launch Pad Technician/Level 2: $23.00/hour      Launch Pad Technician/Level 3: $28.00/hour      

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.

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.