Test Engineer, Fluid/Mechanical Systems (Starship)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

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

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

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