Mechanical Engineer, Launch Pad (Starship)

MECHANICAL ENGINEER, LAUNCH PAD (STARSHIP)

SpaceX is committed to developing revolutionary space technology, with the ultimate goal of enabling people to live on other planets. As a mechanical engineer, you will support the development of SpaceX's Starship Tower and Launch Mount, part of a fully reusable transportation system designed to launch both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond. 

Engineers in this role are responsible for hardware development from initial system architecting through the design, analysis, activation, and operational phases. Mechanical engineers design welded structures, large-scale mechanisms, electromechanical actuation systems, and fluid systems, including hydraulic and cryogenic. These systems are involved with stacking the two stages of Starship, supporting them in high winds, loading propellant prior to launch, and catching the vehicles at the end of their mission. The Starship program is focused on rapid iteration and improvement, which enables engineers to continuously innovate and advance technology throughout the life of the program.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Drive hardware development for systems within the Starship tower and launch mount from basic architecture through design, analysis, schedule, manufacture, activation, and operational phases
• Own design and manufacturing of mechanisms, actuation systems, fluid systems, and large structures
• Work closely with analysts to develop loading requirements and with manufacturing engineers to optimize designs for rapid manufacturability
• 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/electromechanical 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
• 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 hardware is typically built in tight quarters at high elevations, and physical dexterity is required
• Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Mechanical Engineer/Level I: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year
Mechanical Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00/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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.