Define, implement, and validate acceptance and operational requirements to promote reliability, rapid reusability, and streamlined processing of Falcon rockets
Take on primary responsibility for the success of Merlin engines or Stage Propulsion hardware for a given test or launch campaign
Support test and launch operations across all SpaceX facilities, including live on-console support from mission control
Perform post-test and post-flight data reviews, and provide technical recommendations to the Vehicle Maintenance team to enable rapid, reliable reuse of hardware
Solve undefined and multi-disciplinary problems, interfacing with engineering and technician teams from all disciplines across SpaceX (e.g., production, test, launch, avionics, structures, guidance, navigation & control, thermal and fluid analysis, flight and ground software, mission management, flight reliability, etc.)
Work closely with commercial and government customers to drive down technical debt, mitigate flight risks, and ensure maximum hardware and software reliability
Lead propulsion anomaly investigations and drive these investigations to resolution
Develop new automation capabilities to enable extreme launch cadence – leverage coding for rapid test and flight data analysis, flight software verification, and other engineering processes, and eliminate recurring work
Optimize recurring test and mission tasks to enable an increasingly demanding launch manifest
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
1+ years of experience working with engines or fluid systems
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or aeronautical/astronautical engineering
Analytical/scientific programming experience
Experience in collaborative coding within version-controlled repositories (e.g., Git)
Experience with Python
Strong foundation in fluid mechanics (compressible and incompressible), thermodynamics, combustion, structures/fracture mechanics, and materials
Familiarity with liquid propellant rocket engine cycles, launch vehicle fluid systems, and components
Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal) and ability to succinctly present recommendations to stakeholders, customers, and management
Hands-on hardware experience performing fabrication, assembly, and/or testing (can be in a professional, academic, entrepreneurial, or hobby setting)
Experience testing liquid propellant rockets and/or working with pneumatic systems, hydraulic systems, cryogenic propellants, pressure control devices, valves, tubes/pipes, diffusers, and fittings
Experience with pad, launch, or flight operations for an integrated vehicle
Demonstrated track record of success in a rapidly growing, changing, and highly technical environment — ability to act and execute in a scrappy, entrepreneurial manner against tight timelines
Profound sense of personal ownership and extreme accountability
Ability to think clearly and communicate concisely in high-pressure, time-critical situations
Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, exceptional attention to detail
Great attitude in the face of extreme challenges
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to travel in support of testing, launching, and maintenance of flight hardware (up to 10%)
Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
Ability to work extended hours and weekends when production, test, or launch timelines require it
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Pay Range
- Level 1: $100,000.00 - $130,000.00
- Level 2: $115,000.00 - $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.
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.
