RESPONSIBILITIES
Own the payload-to-platform ICD: define, baseline, and configuration-control mechanical, electrical, data, and thermal interfaces
Allocate customer and vehicle requirements to the interface; maintain traceability through analysis, test, and inspection
Evaluate payload design against platform constraints and environments (static, dynamic, thermal, electromagnetic) for launch, on-orbit, and re-entry
Lead interface trades (mass, volume, keep-out, loads, power, thermal, EMI/EMC, timeline) and document the technical basis
Disposition interface non-compliances with engineering: waiver, redesign, or operational constraint, including work-around plans where required
Define and support integrated test: interface checkout, EGSE, mate/demate, environmental test correlation, and end-to-end mission timeline
Build and maintain the integrated mission CONOPs (on-orbit operations) with payload, vehicle, and operations teams
Identify technical risk at the payload–platform boundary, including Do No Harm to the vehicle and to co-manifested payloads; drive mitigations to closure
Support design reviews, test readiness, and flight readiness with evidence of interface compliance—not as a customer-facing facilitator, as the responsible engineer for the interface
Communicate interface status, open items, and technical decisions to payload providers and internal engineering teams
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or STEM discipline
Ability to obtain a Top Secret SCI clearance
Experience applying systems engineering methods (requirements, interfaces, verification, or integration and test)
Excellent verbal and written technical communication skills
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance
1+ years of spacecraft, launch vehicle, or payload integration / systems engineering experience
Master’s degree in an engineering discipline
Hands-on experience with ICD development, requirements verification, or integrated test
Familiarity with launch and on-orbit environments (coupled loads, shock, vibe, thermal vacuum, EMI/EMC)
Familiarity with USG processes and systems
Ability to close technical trades across multiple engineering organizations under schedule pressure
Ability to quickly adapt and change course in a fast-paced environment
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs
Note that an active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions; if so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing
Must be willing to travel (approximately 15%) to other SpaceX locations and payload integration sites, as necessary
Able to work extended hours and weekends when necessary to support test, integration, or critical mission timelines
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Pay Range
- Level 1: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00
- Level 2: $125,000.00 - $160,000.00
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 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. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.
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 reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.
