Test Technician (Dragon Spacecraft) at SpaceX
Hawthorne, CA, 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 TECHNICIAN (DRAGON SPACECRAFT)
Test Technicians work closely with the engineering department to support test operations on test stands and test fixtures for flight hardware. Dragon is a free-flying spacecraft designed to deliver both people and cargo to orbiting destinations. It is the only spacecraft currently flying that is capable of returning significant amounts of cargo to Earth, and the only active US spacecraft qualified to launch people to the ISS.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Execute and run tests as required on flight and ground support hardware to support the launch manifest (hydraulic, pneumatic proof, leak, thermal and electrical tests)
Communicate and work with engineers to develop and document test procedures
Assist in the design and fabrication of test fixtures, test setups, and test stands
Improve area safety and efficiency through regular auditing and continuous improvement
Identifying training needs and developing training programs in line with the hardware that is being tested
Assist in the identification, installation and implementation of test equipment, instrumentation and data acquisition systems
Ensure test equipment is maintained and calibrated as well as track calibration schedules
Lead efforts to uncover root-cause and develop permanent resolution on issues found during product builds
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
High school diploma or equivalency certificate
2+ years of experience working in an aerospace, manufacturing, military or automotive environment
1+ years of experience performing hydraulic, pneumatic proof, leak, thermal, and electrical tests
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Experience with test operations procedures including hydraulic load control, hydro/pneumatic pressure control, and safe handling of flight parts
Ability to read electro-mechanical schematics to accomplish checkouts
Ability to troubleshoot programs and systems and determine root causes and implement fixes
Ability to install and use test instrumentation sensors, including strain gages, deflection gages, pressure transducers, load cells, thermocouples, RTDs, accelerometers, and analog circuitry
Ability to fabricate and repair cable harnesses including soldering, crimping, assembling connectors
Ability to read mechanical assembly drawings and blueprints
Strong computer skillset, including Microsoft Office navigation and file manipulation
Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills
Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
Ability to solve complex problems with minimal supervision on tight schedules
Ability to take project goals inputs and works towards that end-goal beyond individual task assignment
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed. Nominal hours - 1st shift: 5:00 AM - 1:30 PM, 2nd shift: 3:30 PM - 12:00 AM
Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
Standing, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position
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.
