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Job description
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.
SENIOR BUILD ENGINEER (STARSHIP)
The Build Engineer role is responsible for taking design‑for‑manufacturability concepts through to integration and testing of the full vehicle. Build Engineers will be deeply involved in the primary and secondary structures of Starship and Super Heavy, including the design of tooling (assembly aids, welding fixtures, part fixturing, etc.) and the development of processes for welding, large part movement, and major structure integration. This role will rapidly develop early versions of the vehicles and later transition into integration operations sequencing and the installation of flight‑critical hardware. Throughout the program, Build Engineers will document processes and drive continuous improvement for future builds. Engineers in this role will also be expected to act as de facto technical supervisors and advisors to production technicians, welders, and other skilled trades.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Work closely with vehicle analysts and the design team to ensure hardware meets both vehicle design requirements and manufacturing process constraints
Develop production procedures and manage the transition of parts and assemblies from development to high‑rate production
Coordinate and execute development, qualification, and acceptance testing of tooling and systems required to meet hardware deadlines
Identify and implement design‑for‑manufacturability (DFM) improvements to increase production efficiency
Create original CAD models and drawings for flight hardware and tooling
Serve as the primary on‑site design engineering point of contact for efficient build and assembly of parts and vehicle systems
Create and maintain build schedules
Analyze and resolve manufacturing discrepancies, working closely with the Quality team on issues related to design, fabrication, and assembly
Participate in design reviews with internal teams, suppliers, and customers
Partner with engineering and production teams to generate ideas and improvements for current and next‑generation vehicles
Provide technical direction and support to vendors; assist in sourcing and qualifying new suppliers
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, or Engineering Physics
Hands‑on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a team or sub‑team lead
5+ years of professional engineering experience
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Experience working on SpaceX vehicles or builds
Strong experience with GD&T
Experience with large steel structure fabrication and assembly (civil, naval, aerospace, or heavy mechanical)
Experience leading the mechanical design of operationally critical hardware, including structures and basic structural analysis
Proficiency with Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
Experience developing, maintaining, and improving welding processes
Experience with process development, facility/line layouts, and error‑proofing (poka‑yoke)
Experience with Siemens NX and Teamcenter (CAD and PLM systems)
Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
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
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
Flexibility to travel to remote build sites, up to 10%
Stand: Up to 6 hours per day
Sit: Up to 6 hours per day
Push/Pull: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) 30 minutes to 1 hour per day
Overhead reach: Up to 1 hour per day
Walk: Up to 1 hour per day
Lift/Carry: Up to 25lbs. (unassisted) 30 minutes to 1 hour per day
Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 6 hours per day
Kneel/Crouch: Up to 6 hours per day
Upper body twist: Up to 6 hours per day
Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 6 hours or greater per day
Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, using an air purifying respirator, operating heavy equipment and machinery, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description
Candidate may be required to complete a pre‑employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review
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 Affinative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to
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Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.