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.

SR. FLUIDS SYSTEMS ENGINEER, STRUCTURAL TEST (STARSHIP) 

The Starship structural test team is responsible for testing the limits of Starship’s primary structure and propulsion/fluids systems. We are seeking a senior fluids systems engineer who will be both an individual contributor and a technical leader in implementing cryogenic propellant processing for the Starship test site to help enable the application of flight-like loads and environments to Starships that fly! You will have the opportunity to use your multi-disciplinary knowledge, experience, and creativity to architect the fluids and cryogenic propellant processing systems needed to support high-cadence Starship tests and launches. Join the team responsible for testing and launching the largest and most powerful rocket known to man!

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Perform thermofluid analysis and other design tasks associated with gaseous and liquid (including cryogenic liquid) fluid systems Serve as the responsible fluid systems engineer of one or multiple test pad fluid systems including gaseous, liquid, and/or cryogenic fluid systems Ensure Starship meets a high launch cadence by re-configuring and architecting the test pad fluid systems for fast and seamless propellant transfer Work with vehicle and test engineers to understand requirements and develop systems from conception Manage interdisciplinary engineering projects from concept through design, build, and activation Perform data review and troubleshoot hardware associated with your and other fluid systems

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering discipline 5+ years of work experience in aerospace, mechanical, or other engineering field

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns Experience using CAESAR II or similar pipe stress analysis programs Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar computer-aided design (CAD) software Experience using Python or other programming languages for data review and analysis Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases & fluids, etc.) 5+ years of hands-on build or design experience (internship, club, and competition team experience qualifies) Familiarity with instrumentation and control components (pressure transducers, thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors (RTD), strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoids, pneumatic valves) Knowledge of engineering standards and best practices such as ASME B31.3, ASME BPV Code Section VIII, and AFSPCMAN 91-710 Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment Strong communication and presentation skills Strong work ethic and drive for constant improvement balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings, and climbing hand over hand Ability to work at elevated heights occasionally (scissor lifts and articulating boom lifts) Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise Schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required Able to lift heavy objects, up to 25lbs unassisted

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:       

Pay range:    
Fluid Systems Engineer/Senior: $125,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year    

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.

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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.