Test Engineer, Fluid/Mechanical Systems (Starship)

TEST ENGINEER, FLUID/MECHANICAL SYSTEMS (STARSHIP)

The Starship Structural Test team is responsible for testing the limits of Starship's primary structure and propulsion/fluids systems. We are seeking an engineer who will have the opportunity to use their multi-disciplinary knowledge, experience, and creativity to design, analyze, and build the fluid and mechanical systems needed to support high-cadence Starship tests. These tests include long-duration static fires and structural testing of new versions of Starship! Join the team responsible for testing and launching the largest and most powerful rocket known to man!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Drive hardware development for systems within the Starship test site from basic architecture through design, analysis, scheduling, manufacturing, activation, and operational phases
• Own design, analysis, and manufacturing of gaseous and liquid fluid systems, mechanisms, actuation systems, fluid systems, and large structures
• Serve as the responsible engineer for one or multiple fluids, mechanical systems, and structures including compressible, incompressible, and/or cryogenic fluid systems
• Utilize finite element method (FEM) software (e.g. ANSYS, FEMAP) and rigorous hand calculations to facilitate design and issue disposition
• Work with vehicle engineers to understand requirements and develop systems from conception
• Perform data review and troubleshoot hardware issues associated with mechanical and fluid systems
• Work with, and direct, a skilled technician workforce to carry out troubleshooting, maintenance activities, upgrades, and operational procedures

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering field
• 1+ years of professional experience designing, building, or troubleshooting fluid or mechanical systems (internships and college competition team count)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns
• Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar computer-aided design (CAD) software
• Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases & fluids, etc.)
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems and weldments
• Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Strong communication and presentation skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 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
• Ability to work at elevated heights occasionally (scissor lifts and articulating boom lifts)
• Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments - heat, cold, rain
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required
• Physical effort including sitting or standing for extended periods of time, lifting and carrying weight such as materials or equipment (up to 25 lbs. unassisted)
• Must be available for overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Test Engineer/Level I: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year
Test 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 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. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.