Launch Engineer, Structures (Dragon Component Maintenance)

LAUNCH ENGINEER, STRUCTURES (DRAGON COMPONENT MAINTENANCE)

SpaceX is currently seeking talented individuals for a position on the Dragon Maintenance team, focused on components and subassemblies. As a part of the team, you will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience and creativity to develop novel solutions in human spaceflight manufacturing and re-usability. You will support the refurbishment and testing of composite flight hardware, including transitioning this processing to a new facility. You will have ownership of your work and team in all phases of Maintenance. The role will also provide an opportunity to establish aircraft-like operations on Dragon as well as interface with engineering and production teams across the program.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Own engineering deliverables for the stand up of a new production facility focused on structural component refurbishment
• Identify, plan, and execute capital equipment, machine, and floor layout to meet volume production demand
• Develop and refine integrated planning documents that are inclusive of varying hardware configurations and work scope
• Develop and refine inspection, repair/retrofit, assembly, system test requirements and procedures based on lessons learned from both flight and ground operations
• Enable day to day execution on the shop floor through resolution of technical issues
• Work closely with design engineers to evaluate designs for manufacturability and implementation in a rapidly evolving production environment
• Design and develop tools to enable component processing and ensure product reliability
• Closely collaborate with engineering staff from other departments and highly skilled technicians on a daily basis
• Work with a government or commercial customer to fulfill contractual requirements for flight hardware refurbishment
• Manage and track multiple priorities while maintaining a focus towards common project goals
• Seek out the solutions to technical problems with the local team along with the larger SpaceX workforce

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, physics, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering or other engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience with complex, multi-disciplinary system assemblies (past work experience, internships, team/personal projects with aerospace vehicles/payloads, automotive, aircraft, or marine assemblies qualify)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in mechanical, materials, or aerospace engineering
• 2+ years of industry experience (automotive, aviation or spacecraft manufacturing) working with composite structures and/or large mechanical assemblies
• 1+ years experience with advanced composites manufacturing processes (out-of-autoclave prepreg processing, drilling and routing of composites, structural adhesives) for large scale, primary structures in a production environment
• Familiarity with test procedures and non-destructive evaluation of structural composites
• Experience writing work instructions and procedures for critical aerospace hardware
• Mechanical component and/or tooling design analysis experience using 3D CAD software
• Experience with design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA)
• Experience transitioning complex products from R&D to rate manufacturing in a fast-paced environment
• Experience working on spacecraft or launch vehicles
• Acute attention to detail
• Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
• A positive, upbeat attitude
• The ability to perform work expectations and thrive in a high-stress environment
• Ability to work well in a team environment and communicate clearly and accurately with a wide range of people

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass Space Force background check for Cape Canaveral
• Physical effort including standing, lifting and carrying moderately heavy materials or equipment (15 to 35 lbs.)
• Comfortable being trained to work around hypergolic propellants (MMH and NTO) and willing to work with hazardous materials
• Overall mental fitness with the ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment requiring prolonged mental concentration (under possible extended work hours)
• Occasional travel may be required
• Willingness to work outdoors
• 50 hour work weeks are typical, schedule varies depending on site operational needs, flexibility required

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Launch Engineer/Level I: $95,000.00 – $115,000.00/per year
Launch Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 – $130,000.00/per year

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. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.