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 TECHNICIAN, MECHANICAL TEST

The materials testing laboratory generates materials test data to support all major SpaceX programs, including Starship, Falcon, Dragon, and Starlink. The team works closely with engineering departments to ensure the safety and success of missions.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Deliver high-quality results by performing various standardized mechanical tests including tensile, compression, fatigue, and fracture toughness at cryogenic, room, and elevated temperatures to help support the building and development of SpaceX’s launch vehicles and spacecraft
• Perform preparation, operation, maintenance, and care for tensile and fatigue test frames
• Use of mechanical testing software, data collection, and data report generation
• Expedite samples across the SpaceX campus between engineers and testing labs
• Detailed documentation of testing parameters, equipment setup, and other possible variables
• Maintain and use precision calibrated tools including micrometers, calipers, etc.
• Work with engineering to execute non-standard testing to support launch vehicle and spacecraft hardware design and production

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 1+ years of manufacturing or materials testing experience

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate’s degree in engineering, math, or science, or 3+ years of professional experience in a materials testing role within the aerospace industry
• Ability to multitask while working in a fast-paced, challenging work environment, while following standard operating procedures
• Strong problem solving skills
• Strong computer skills including experience with Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook), Atlassian JIRA, and work order systems
• Knowledge of tensile/fatigue test fixture setup, computer programs, and test frames
• Understanding of ASTM test methods tensile, fatigue, and fracture toughness testing fundamentals
• Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills to work closely with other technicians and engineering groups
• Strong organizational skills to keep work area tidy and organize workflow
• Experience using various types of hand tools and/or power tools

ADDITONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Able to work off-shifts and available for overtime and weekends if needed with minimal notice
• Able to wear appropriate PPE for mechanical testing and machine shop environment
• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. unassisted.  Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:                             

Pay range:          

Materials Technician, Mechanical Test/Level 1: $22.00 - $27.00/hour       

Materials Technician, Mechanical Test/Level 2: $25.00 - $32.50/hour       

Materials Technician, Mechanical Test/Level 3: $30.00 - $38.00/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.