Test Technician, Environmental Test

Full Time
Redmond, WA, USA
10 months ago

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.

TEST TECHNICIAN, ENVIRONMENTAL TEST (STARLINK)

We’re seeking an experienced test specialist with a strong affinity toward multidisciplinary testing, design development, and problem-solving. Environmental test technicians work hand-in-hand with multidisciplinary engineers while supporting satellite hardware testing throughout the design and build processes to ultimately join our revolutionary fleet of Starlink satellites. The ideal candidate is highly skilled in mechanical disciplines, hands-on, flexible, a quick learner, works well in a fast-paced environment, and is highly self-motivated.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assemble, instrument, and test satellite flight hardware throughout development, production, and on-orbit correlation testing phases
  • Monitor and assess test asset and test article performance throughout development and qualification campaigns
  • Activate, evaluate, monitor, and maintain space simulation test equipment (Thermal, Thermal Vacuum, HASS / HALT, Vibration, Shock)
  • Assembly, activation and troubleshooting of custom test racks and automated equipment interfaces to increase test lab capability and unit test quality
  • Structural test build and execution for a variety of large- and small-scale structural and mechanical satellite components
  • Work with engineering to plan, build, and activate test equipment (mechanical assemblies, gas, hydraulic, cryogenic fluid systems, etc.)
  • Install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair instrumentation and harnessing. including pressure transducers, flowmeters, temperature sensors, accelerometers and strain gauges

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school degree or equivalency certificate
  • 3+ years of hands on experience with mechanical/structural/fluid/electrical systems
  • 1+ years of experience performing electronic testing and inspection using portable measuring devices

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • A&P (airframe and powerplant) license
  • Experience in research and development or other fast-paced technical environment
  • Experience with evaluation and testing of propulsion, thermal, electrical or structural systems
  • Experience with thermal vacuum and vacuum test equipment
  • Experience with vibration and shock test equipment
  • Ability to demonstrate basic understanding of mechanical GD&T requirements and electrical schematics
  • Experience using oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, power supplies, and soldering equipment
  • Ability to fabricate and repair cable harnesses including: soldering, crimping, assembling connectors
  • Comfortable with operating fabrication equipment (mill, lathe, and drill press)
  • Experience with hydraulic plumbing repair/fabrication
  • Knowledge/experience with cryogenic systems
  • Knowledge of various fittings (NPT, MS, AN, Swagelok, medium pressure)
  • Experience with test operations procedures including hydraulic load control, hydro/pneumatic pressure control, and safe handling of flight parts
  • Experience with rigging, cranes, and lift operations
  • Experience with precision measuring instruments/equipment
  • Strong computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and ability to navigate and manipulate files
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills
  • Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Willing to work all shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed. Estimated shift times: 1st shift 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM; 2nd shift 3:00 PM - 1:30 AM
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds
  • Repetitive assembly operations, grasping, standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 

Pay Range:      

Test Technician / Level 1: $22.00 - $29.00/hour      

Test Technician / Level 2: $27.00 - $34.50/hour      

Test Technician / Level 3: $32.00 - $40.00/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. Non-exempt Washington employees are eligible for sick leave in accordance with Washington's Sick Leave policies.

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.