Fluids Engineer, Launch Systems (Starship) at SpaceX
Brownsville, TX, United States
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.
FLUIDS ENGINEER, LAUNCH SYSTEMS (STARSHIP)
The Starship Launch Fluids Development team is seeking a talented Fluids Engineer in Starbase, TX. You will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience, and creativity to rapidly design, build, and activate fluid systems supporting Starship launch pads, landing facilities, offshore platforms, test sites, production factories and other locations as required.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Design, build, and operate cryogenic, high pressure, oxygen-clean, hydraulic, or other fluid systems to support the Starship launch vehicle
Utilize knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid flow, and controls to design and analyze process systems, develop piping and instrumentation diagrams, and write automation code
Model piping assemblies using CAD software and perform piping stress analysis
Select components, such as valves, pumps, piping, tanks, and filters, and provide detailed specifications for their purchase
Coordinate with engineers from other disciplines (civil, structural, electrical, controls, etc.) to establish a complete system design
Manage the fabrication and installation of fluid systems and other construction projects occurring at the launch and test sites, hands-on in the field, alongside skilled technician teams
Perform planning, analysis, and troubleshooting of system performance during real-time activation operations and post-test data reviews
Work closely with Operations teams to ensure system design is well-understood and easy to operate long term
Provide innovative solutions to problems under minimal supervision or direction
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in engineering or a technical discipline
Experience with fluid dynamics, thermodynamics and/or process engineering
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Advanced degree in mechanical, aerospace or chemical engineering
5+ years of hands-on experience working with cryogenic fluid systems in a professional setting or outside the classroom project team
Demonstrated expertise in the design, build, and operation of pressurized fluid systems per ASME B31, ASME B&PV Code Section VIII, AFSPCMAN 91-710, or other applicable standards
Experience using Siemens NX, SOLIDWORKS, or similar CAD software
Experience using CAESAR II or similar pipe stress analysis programs
Experience using python or other programming languages for data review and analysis
Experience operating and troubleshooting control systems required for remote operations
Excellent written and oral communication, especially translating technical concepts for non-technical audiences
Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere
Demonstrated ability to lead a team of talented and driven engineers
Unfazed by change in strategic direction
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral
Willing to travel to other launch sites in support of build and operational activities and launches; travel requirement is up to 15%
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.
