Sr. Structures Engineer, Build (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.

SR. STRUCTURES ENGINEER, BUILD (STARSHIP)

The build engineer is responsible for production, qualification, and the design/analysis of hardware manufactured on the lines, as well as advancement of the manufacturing system itself. Development scope includes identifying inputs, detailed design and analysis, design reviews, qualification, and production implementation. This includes mechanical testing, weld process development, inspection techniques, personnel access, and all associated tooling required to create the Starship and Super Heavy Booster primary structures. Additional responsibilities include developing and reviewing work instructions as designs evolve and resolving issues that often require one-off analysis to determine the path forward.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Work closely with vehicle analysts to ensure solutions meet the requirements for vehicle design as well as the manufacturing processes

Develop production procedures/processes and manage the transition of parts and assemblies from development to high-rate production

Coordinate and execute development, qualification, and acceptance testing of systems and tooling needed to meet hardware deadlines

Execute design for manufacturability changes to enhance production efficiency

Create original CAD models and prints for flight and/or tooling components

Lead the on-site design engineering contact for the efficient build of parts and assemblies

Create and maintain build schedules

Resolve and analyze manufacturing discrepancies while interfacing with the quality team (resolving issues for design, fabrication, and assembly)

Participate in design reviews internally and with suppliers and customers

Partner with engineering and production teams to generate ideas, designs, and improvements for current and next-generation vehicles

Source, retain, and advise new and experienced vendors from a technical perspective

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

5+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing or production

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, materials or industrial engineering

Involvement in a professional engineering society or collegiate design project

Experience with the build, assembly, or integration of large mechanical assemblies

Knowledge of metallic manufacturing techniques, processes, and equipment related to welding, metal forming, fastening, drilling, bonding and automation

Mechanical component and/or tooling design and analysis experience using 3D CAD software

Experience with design for manufacture and assembly (DFMA)

Experience writing work instructions and procedures for critical aerospace parts

Experience in a production environment within the aerospace industry

Experience transitioning complex products from R&D to high-volume manufacturing in a fast-paced environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Willingness to work extended hours and weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines

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.