Development Test Technician 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.
DEVELOPMENT TEST TECHNICIAN
This position is for a Development Test Technician on the Starship Structures Test team. The role is highly multidisciplinary and this individual will be tasked with a wide variety of test equipment and test article fabrication and operations. The team consists of technicians, engineers and specialists working closely together to build mechanical and fluid assemblies, modify and integrate test articles, build data and control systems, and execute test operations. The ideal candidate is highly skilled with mechanical, welding and/or electrical disciplines, hands-on, flexible, a quick learner, works well in a fast-paced environment, and is highly self-motivated.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Work closely with engineers to rapidly bring designs to fruition through collaboration and feedback by interpreting drawings and schematics, updating documentation and owning the build process
Fabricate metallic piece parts to print using machine shop equipment: mill, lathe, etc.
Assemble test equipment to print, including on-assembly fabrication operations: precision match drilling, welding, and riveting
Assemble large mechanical assemblies that require strategic part manipulation and heavy lift operations and equipment
Fabricate and assemble high-pressure pneumatic and hydraulic fluid systems, including bending/flaring/assembling of stainless steel and flexible tubing
Independently fabricate instrumentation and wire harnesses for ground support electro-mechanical test equipment and spaceflight harnesses that connect to test articles
Install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair instrumentation and harnessing. including pressure transducers, flowmeters, temperature sensors, accelerometers and strain gauges
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
High school diploma or equivalency certificate
2+ years of experience in mechanical fabrication
3+ years of experience with one of more of the following: working with and troubleshooting mechanical systems, high pressure fluid systems, cryogenic systems or test operations
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
A&P (airframe and powerplant) license
Able to read mechanical and engineering drawings and interpret tolerances (including GD&T)
Experience with hydraulic plumbing repair/fabrication
Knowledge/experience with cryogenic systems (gaseous and liquid)
Experience with rigging, cranes, and lift operations
Experience with precision measuring instruments/equipment
Knowledge of various fittings (NPT, MS, AN, Swagelok, medium pressure)
Experience with test operations procedures including hydraulic load control, hydro/pneumatic pressure control, and safe handling of flight part
Electrical experience
Knowledge/experience working with electrical components and systems
Ability to read electro-mechanical schematics to accomplish checkouts
Experience using oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, power supplies, and soldering equipment
Experience with electrical component and system level troubleshooting skills and the ability to logically solve instrumentation system problems and determine corrective action
Experience building and activating data and control system, wiring harnesses, and instrumentation
Welding experience
Experience welding on steel and aluminum, and stainless-steel projects
Proficient in Flux core, GTAW, GMAW with strong understanding of AC and DC processes
Proficient in plasma cutting as well as oxyacetylene cutting
Able to pass AWS D1.1 & AWS D1.2 tests
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Physical effort including standing, lifting, and carrying equipment up to 30 lbs. unassisted
Must be able to work at elevated heights (scissor lifts and articulated boom lifts)
Must be able to work in extreme outdoor environments - heat, cold, rain, etc.
Must be able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as necessary; flexibility required
Willing to travel for short trips as needed, up to 5% travel
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.
