Laser Welder/Structural Fabricator (Starship)

LASER WELDER/STRUCTURAL FABRICATOR (STARSHIP)

As a Laser Welder, you’ll play a critical role in constructing the primary and secondary airframe structures of the Starship Nosecone and Payload Bay sections. 

Your mission:

• Collaborate with top-tier welders and technicians.
• Rapidly build the top half structure of the Starship, including the nosecone, payload, satellite mechanisms, landing tanks, and other large structures.
• Contribute to the flight article design for Starship, pushing the boundaries of space exploration.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Laser welding: cut, trim, fit, and fabricate metal components to dimensions for building and assembling
• Collaborate with lead welder to ensure that the proper weld procedure, type of material, and rod size are accurately assessed for each welding project
• Analyze engineering drawings and specifications to plan welding operations where procedural information is unavailable
• Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment
• Weld assembly and fabrication of various small to large scale structures and assemblies
• Effectively communicate with management/supervisors, engineering staff and planners to achieve build efficiency
• Modify repair, assemble, and install launch vehicles
• Check work after completion of each operation in job and/or completed job to ensure it is complete per drawing
• Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in approved manner
• Install and assemble custom and off-the-shelf tooling and machinery for building primary tank structure
• Setup of safety equipment and work platforms at elevation
• Operate general shop equipment and vehicles (forklifts, boom lifts, scissor lifts, etc.)

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 1+ years of experience with laser or MIG welding in a manufacturing environment or certificate of completion for welding from an accredited program within the last 2 years

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 10+ years of experience with laser or MIG welding with one or more of the following materials: stainless steel, carbon steel, Inconel, aluminum and titanium
• Highly proficient in tube cutting, grinding and fabrication
• Highly experienced in Class A welds
• Certifications with AWS D17.1 and D1.2
• Experience with DC welding techniques, and engineering requirements
• Experience working with standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade
• Knowledge in occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the trade
• Knowledge in arc air procedures and equipment
• Experience operating overhead cranes and forklifts
• Experience using precision measuring instruments
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Role requires passing a weld test per AWS D17.1
• Must be available for all shifts (day shift, 6 AM – 6 PM or night shift, 6 PM – 6 AM), overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required
• Ability to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum and able to lift heavy objects (up to 25 lbs.) unassisted
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings and climbing hand over hand. This position may also require working in confined spaces and elevated heights (up to 100 feet)
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise and extreme outdoor conditions (heat, cold, rain)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:    

Pay range:    

Welder/Level 1: $18.00/hour    
Welder/Level 2: $23.00/hour    
Welder/Level 3: $28.00/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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.