Mechanical Engineer, Launch Mount/Tower (Starship)

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.

MECHANICAL ENGINEER, LAUNCH MOUNT/TOWER (STARSHIP)

As a mechanical engineer, you will develop the Starship Tower, Launch Mount, and test stands from system architecture through design, analysis, manufacturing, integration, activation, and operations. You will design welded structures, large-scale mechanisms, electromechanical and fluid-power actuators, and hydraulic and cryogenic systems that support stage testing, vehicle stacking, propellant loading, T-0 release, catching both stages, and rapid safing for reflight. In a program built on fast iteration, the launch mount and tower team’s goal is a ZERO-refurbishment pad that can launch one vehicle and be ready to launch again immediately.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Drive hardware development for systems within the Starship tower, launch mount and test stands from basic architecture through design, analysis, scheduling, manufacturing, activation, and operational phases
• Own design and manufacturing of mechanisms, actuation systems, fluid systems, and large structures
• Perform structural, dynamic, thermal, and fluid analysis as necessary to determine requirements and to optimize the design of these systems  
• Work closely with software and operations engineers to develop the concept of operations for launch mount systems with the goal of developing robust, fault-tolerant systems and software that perform every time in the varying extreme conditions of a launch environment
• Collaborate with engineers designing the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles to determine how the tower, launch mount, and vehicle can work together most effectively

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience with CAD and FEA software packages
• 1+ years of experience with mechanical or fluid systems design, analysis, and hands-on assembly (internship or project team experience qualify)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
• 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis
• 2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a lead
• Solid understanding and application of GD&T and manufacturing techniques
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems and weldments
• Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Tower and launch mount hardware is typically built in tight quarters at high elevations, and physical dexterity is required
• Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary
• Stand: Up to 6 hours per day
• Sit: Up to 6 hours per day
• Push/Pull: Up to ≤ 50 lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 3 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 10 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: Up to ≤ 25 lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 10 hours per day
• Kneel/Crouch: Up to 3 hours per day
• Upper body twist: Up to 3 hours per day
• Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 6 hours or greater per day
• Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, using an air purifying respirator, operating heavy equipment and machinery, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review

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  [email protected].