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.

SR. MECHANICAL ENGINEER, TEST HARDWARE DEVELOPMENT (STARLINK)

The Starlink team designs, builds, and operates the most complex on orbit communications system in the world. As a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, you will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to design and build mechanical, fluid, and electrical systems required to enable successful high-volume production of the Starlink satellites.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to understand and drive requirements for production and development testing of highly complex spaceflight hardware
• Design fixtures, mechanisms, fluid systems and other types of hardware to support safe, efficient, and reliable testing of satellite systems
• Create detailed documentation for test systems including engineering drawings and schematics 
• Utilize hand calculations and tools such as FEA to inform and validate design decisions
• Balance multiple high-priority projects through effective time management and communication
• Demonstrate extreme ownership of all project phases from initial concept to final commissioning and operation
• Work closely with technicians to build, assemble, and operate test systems
• Review data to understand and validate performance of test systems

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline or STEM discipline
• Experience with CAD and FEA software packages 
• 5+ years of experience with mechanical/electromechanical design, analysis, testing, and/or manufacturing 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
• 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis
• 2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team lead
• Proficient in 3D CAD (NX preferred)
• Solid understanding and application of GD&T
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems
• Prior ownership of a complex component or assembly from initial design through high-volume production ramp
• Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills
• Knowledge of and experience in selecting materials, manufacturing methods, and surface treatments for mechanical components
• Basic understanding of industrial electrical, control, and instrumentation systems
• Experience working effectively across multi-disciplinary teams
• Desire to work in a fast-paced environment
• Basic proficiency with Python or other programming language

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:                          

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.