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.

LAUNCH PAD ENGINEER, MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

SpaceX is currently seeking an individual to join the Launch Pad Engineering team in Cape Canaveral, FL. As a member of the Launch Pad Engineering team, you will have the opportunity to utilize your multi-disciplinary knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop solutions for launch pad operations with the goal of maximizing efficiency without sacrificing safety or reliability.

While preparing the pads for launch, you will be responsible for ensuring all aspects of launch pad ground support equipment have been properly inspected, configured, and tested to support Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy interface requirements. You will also be responsible for addressing complex structural and mechanical issues that arise and utilizing engineering intuition as well as thorough calculations to provide engineering disposition for a path forward.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Serve as the responsible engineer for multiple launch pad mechanical systems and structures
Utilize FEM software (e.g. ANSYS, FEMAP) and rigorous hand calculations to facilitate design and issue disposition
Work with, and direct, a skilled technician workforce to carry out troubleshooting, maintenance activities, upgrades, and operational procedures
Contribute to the development and improvement of the functional automation relating to the systems for which you are responsible
Identify and implement upgrades to launch pad hardware, software, and procedures – drive continuous improvement in these areas by interfacing regularly with various teams across SpaceX
Develop and perform post-launch data review for your respective system(s), both automated and manual
Represent SpaceX by presenting certification packages and engineering data to U.S. government agencies including NASA, US Air Force, and others
Utilize a high-end CAD software design package (NX) to facilitate design and engineering drawing creation as well as issue disposition

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, computer science, or other engineering discipline
1+ years of experience working with mechanical hardware

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases & fluids, etc.)
Familiarity with instrumentation and control components (pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoids, pneumatic valves)
Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar CAD software
Experience using ANSYS, FEMAP or similar finite element analysis software
Experience using Python or other programming languages for data review and analysis
Experience using and troubleshooting control systems for remote operations and instrumentation feedback
Knowledge of engineering standards and best practices such as ASME B31.3, ASME BPV Code Section VIII, and AFSPCMAN 91-710
Experience reviewing data from anomalies and identifying root cause
Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
Strong communication and presentation skills
Strong work ethic and drive to for constant improvement balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to work weekends and night shifts as needed
Ability to travel to other launch sites in support of operational activities and launches; travel requirement is up to 15%
Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

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 reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

Launch Pad Engineer, Mechanical Systems