Test Equipment Engineer at SpaceX
McGregor, 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.
TEST EQUIPMENT ENGINEER
This position designs, builds and operates facilities in support of engine, component, structural, and developmental testing at the SpaceX Rocket Development Facility. Join the team as a mechanical engineer and take ownership of systems and hardware used to prove out the next generation of American rockets.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Engineering, design, analysis, material/component selection and procurement, construction, activation, and maintenance of test stands, tooling, and supporting infrastructure
Provide support and direction to technicians during construction, activation, and maintenance of stands and equipment
Support testing campaigns by operating ground propellant systems, reviewing data for system health, and modifying equipment or procedures as necessary
Develop novel ways to streamline site-wide processes and increase the reliability and efficiency of testing operations
Perform any additional tasks that ensure efficient and effective testing, as required
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or other engineering discipline
1+ years of hands-on build or design experience (experience from internships, clubs or other engineering extra-curricular activities qualifies)
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
3+ years of mechanical design experience in an industrial setting
Fundamental understanding, intuition, and aptitude of fluid and/or structural/mechanical design and analysis
Creative ability to imagine and design from scratch, while retaining low cost, reliability, efficiency, and maintainability
Experience where quick-thinking and problem solving plays a critical role
Collaborative team player, eager to find the best engineering solution while balancing cost and schedule
Good response to challenges posed by short deadlines
Ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment
Acute attention to detail, ability to see interactions with other systems to avoid problems
Intermediate skill level using Windows operating systems
Intermediate skill level using Microsoft Office
Intermediate skill level using CAD (NX a plus)
Experience with high pressure and cryogenic fluid systems and components
Experience producing drawings for welders and machine shop fabrication (applied knowledge of GD&T per ASME Y14.5 a plus)
Machining, welding, other fabrication techniques, and general hands-on experience
Experience in FEA or CFD modeling and analysis, with ability to verify by simplified hand calculations
Piping and pressure vessel design experience per ASME code, work with flanges, gaskets, fasteners
Instrumentation, testing, data review and analysis, verification against a model
Creative and passionate approach to addressing opportunities and challenges, and an enthusiastic, self-motivated, positive can-do attitude
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while maintaining a high sense of urgency in a high-paced, challenging work environment
Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively
Willingness to perform other related duties for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Working conditions may be in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required
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
Able to lift heavy objects up to 25 lbs unassisted
Ability to work on ladders, lifts, and at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with proper PPE
Able to respond to emergencies to support priority projects, missions, and launches
Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed; flexibility is required
Able to work in extreme outdoor environments when needed - heat, cold, wind, rain, etc.
Able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
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.