Sr. Launch Engineer, Control & Flight Operations

SR. LAUNCH ENGINEER, CONTROL AND FLIGHT OPERATIONS

SpaceX is currently seeking an all-star to join the Launch Operations team at Vandenberg AFB. As a Sr. Launch Engineer in the Operations group, you will have the opportunity to utilize your multi-disciplinary knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop methods that maximize launch efficiency without sacrificing safety or reliability.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Control launch vehicle, launch pad, recovery vessels/sites, and launch countdown as a primary launch controller for SpaceX’s fleet of vehicles
• Serve as the main point of contact for launch readiness, launch anomaly resolutions, and day-to-day launch pad operations
• Evaluate ground and flight operations to drive streamlined control room operations
• Use fluid dynamic, thermodynamic, low voltage electrical, and mechanical system knowledge to provide guidance to teams as they troubleshoot and resolve issues in a fast-paced environment
• Work closely with design teams to spearhead the implementation of hardware, software, and process improvements to drive towards a rapid launch-to-launch cadence
• Develop software and processes that automate how SpaceX tests and validates ground and vehicle software
• Help design automation back-end software to optimize how operators interact with hardware

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, computer science, or other engineering discipline
• 5+ years of experience in a test/automation/integration engineering role (internships, design/build/compete project team experience qualify) 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns
• Experience working on projects that involve the integration of electrical, mechanical, and software systems
• Demonstrated expertise with instrumentation and control components (pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoid, pneumatic valves, etc.)
• Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases and fluids, etc.)
• Strong work ethic and drive for constant improvement, balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure, fast paced environment
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) and the ability to clearly and concisely articulate complex problems to a wide variety of audiences
• Strong project management skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be willing to work weekends and night shifts as launch manifest dictates
• Must be willing to travel to other launch sites in support of operational activities and launches; travel requirement is up to 15%
• Flight hardware typically is built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required
• 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
• Comfort working in outdoor environments as required for system troubleshooting
• Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Vandenberg

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:                  

Pay range:      

Launch 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.