Process Engineer (Fluid Systems) 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 developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
PROCESS ENGINEER (FLUID SYSTEMS)
The Process Engineer for SpaceX Fluid Systems is responsible for the manufacture of high volume/high product mix of fluid systems hardware for launch vehicles and spacecraft that deliver satellites into earth orbit, ferry humans to and from the international space station, and ultimately extend humanity's reach beyond the earth and moon. You will drive improvement projects to ensure that safety, reliability, and process capability goals are achieved, maintained, and improved. You will be a vital part of the relationship between our development and production teams. You will provide input into the design and development of new and existing hardware and take a primary role in manufacturing and integration on our current and next generation vehicles.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Drive root-cause analysis and corrective action recommendations/implementation for the top (highest repeat/highest risk) quality escapes and in-process quality issues
Apply process improvement methodologies and tools (e.g. value stream mapping, problem solving, visual management, etc.) to reduce manufacturing build hours and quality issues; increase production rates; and remove waste from complex processes
Manage projects and execute to tight timelines while effectively communicating to and influencing stakeholders
Train technicians, engineers, and leaders on best-in-class operations practices by driving process improvement workshops; providing training and information briefs on key topics; and demonstrating solutions in the area
Work with design engineers to evaluate designs for manufacturability and test requirements, then implement in a rapidly-evolving production environment
Ideate and implement tooling and test solutions, enabling high quality build of SpaceX hardware
Identify, plan, and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout upgrades to the meet volume production demand
Facilitate day-to-day production of rotary draw formed tubing, welded tube assemblies and high-pressure testing
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, computer science, or similar engineering discipline
1+ years of mechanical design and hands-on manufacturing experience via internships, collegiate engineering projects such as Formula SAE, Baja SAE, etc., or professional industry experience
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills, enthusiasm for the team's spirit of innovation and mission of improving manufacturing for launch vehicles and spacecraft
Experience with high volume manufacturing, or design for manufacture and product development life cycle, or quality tools including root cause and corrective action, PFMEAs, QMS and process auditing and statistical analysis of quality metrics
Ability to make appropriate assumptions and perform trade studies using first principles and engineering fundamentals to create rationale for clear recommendations
Experience with metallic manufacturing techniques and equipment for processes such as CNC fabrication, welding (orbital tube and TIG), precision cleaning, forming, inspection, etc.
Demonstrated experience with CAD and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) experience
Working knowledge of Python or other coding language
Experience in control and monitoring of complex automated systems and risk assessment/reduction of the system
Experience with capacity modeling, process mapping and fault analysis
Experience applying Lean Six Sigma methodologies
Able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment with ongoing drive for continuous improvement in all aspects of work
Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal) and ability to succinctly present recommendations to stakeholders, the customer, and management
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
Ability to work on feet for up to 4+ hours a day
Will sometimes be working directly with the hardware on the floor and will have to be comfortable stooping, bending, and standing
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.
