LAUNCH PAD ENGINEER, FLUID SYSTEMS (STARSHIP)

Job Description

About SpaceX:

SpaceX was founded on the belief that a future where humanity explores the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we do not. The company is actively developing technologies to make this vision a reality, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

Job Description: LAUNCH PAD ENGINEER, FLUID SYSTEMS (STARSHIP)

SpaceX is seeking ambitious engineers for aggressively-paced, constantly-evolving, results-focused positions. These roles involve the design, build, activation, modification, improvement, and maintenance of fluid and mechanical systems for the world’s most powerful rocket. The work environment is described as development-focused, with hardware designed, built, and installed on the same day. The job involves handling systems ranging from tens of thousands of gallons per minute of cryogens to tens of pounds per second of high-pressure gas. Engineers will develop solutions for a demanding launch and test program, both present and future.

Responsibilities:

• Analyze, design, and build systems supporting critical rocket launches and testing.
• Take cradle-to-grave project ownership, including design reviews, project justification, equipment procurement, and construction coordination.
• Design modular hardware for volume manufacturing at future launch sites globally.
• Apply interdisciplinary engineering skills, encompassing system-level process design, pressurized fluid and thermal analysis, structural engineering, materials selection, and cost/schedule optimization.
• Collaborate directly with technicians and support groups to build designs and solve real-world problems.
• Maintain a tight feedback loop with launch operations for rapid plan adjustments.
• Activate and troubleshoot equipment to achieve design objectives and iterate maintenance strategies.
• Hands-on approach to daily field projects.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• 1+ years of hands-on build or design experience (internships, clubs, and competition teams qualify).

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to rapidly adapt roles/responsibilities in a high-paced environment.
• Experience with quick-thinking and problem-solving under pressure.
• Strong understanding of fluid and/or structural/mechanical systems.
• Creativity in designing for reliability, efficiency, and maintainability.
• General hands-on experience (machining, welding, fabrication is a plus).
• Experience with instrumentation, testing, data analysis, and model verification.
• 3+ years of mechanical, fluids, or thermal design experience in an industrial setting or equivalent.
• Experience with high-pressure and cryogenic fluid systems and components.
• Experience producing fabrication drawings.
• Collaborative teamwork skills, balancing cost and schedule.
• Acute attention to detail, anticipating system interactions.
• Intermediate CAD skills (NX a plus).
• Ability to verify designs with hand calculations; FEA or CFD experience a plus.
• ASME piping and pressure vessel design experience.
• Positive attitude and self-motivation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to respond to emergencies.
• Ability to pass an Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral.
• Flexibility with extended hours and weekends.
• Ability to work in various outdoor environments (heat, cold, wind, rain).
• Ability to work with fumes, odors, and noise.
• Physical dexterity for working in tight spaces and at heights.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to work at heights (up to 300 feet) with PPE.
• ITAR compliance requirements (U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, or eligibility for necessary authorizations).