Launch Operations Engineer (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.Launch operations engineers are ultimately responsible for the entire operational process. They develop test requirements, develop launch plans, integrate the on-pad flight/test articles, perform on-console operation of the entire launch system, conduct tests, analyze data to confirm performance and inform the vehicle and ground design/production process, and are the primary flight controllers for launch events.Responsibilities:Serve as on-console flight controllers during launch eventsTest integrated rocket hardware to determine suitability for flightProvide on-console engineering support for technicians during daily test/launch stand operationsWrite and review control logic/automation for test & launch systemsPerform real-time and post-op data review to evaluate the performance of launch/test article and stand systems (software, fluid, structural, thermal, electrical). This includes documenting operational results and recommending areas for upgrades and improvementFind innovative ways to create, review, and optimize test & launch processes/procedures to increase launch system capability and rateIdentify and characterize system pitfalls and potential hazards; then work to resolve these by collaborating with design, production, and ground system engineers on improvements for flight hardware and processesServe as the final authority to ensure all operations are conducted in a safe mannerPerform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environmentBasic Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering discipline1+ years of hands-on build or design experience (internship, club, and competition team experience qualifies)Preferred Skills and Experience:3+ years of hands-on experience with complex and/or low-margin mechanical, structural, fluid, and electronic systemsAbility to thrive in ambiguous requirements and aggressive timelinesHigh levels of personal autonomy and self-driven motivationStrong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment, accomplishing tasks with limited resources at a rapid paceDemonstrated history of working efficiently with hazardous systems (high pressure, high voltage, cryogenic, toxic, flammable, hypergolic, pyrophoric)High level of familiarity with complex system control and instrumentationExperience with analytical data review tools and numerical methods to solve real-world problems (Python, R, MATLAB, NI LabVIEW)Demonstrated experience in effective root cause and failure analysisExperience writing and optimizing high-risk technical procedures and work instructionsAbility to read, understand, and apply technical drawings, data reports, mechanical schematics, electrical schematics, and design specificationsAdditional Requirements:Flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters, and physical dexterity is requiredWork performed in an environment with exposure to fumes, odors, and noiseOccasionally exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments (heat, cold, rain)Hours vary depending on site operational needs; flexibility requiredStand: Up to 1 hour per daySit: Up to 10 hours per dayPush/Pull: Up to 50lbs.
(unassisted) 15 minutes or less per dayOverhead reach: Up to 1 hour per dayWalk: Up to 3 hours per dayLift/Carry: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per dayClimb (ladder/stairs): Up to 1 hour per dayKneel/Crouch: Up to 1 hour per dayUpper body twist: Up to 1 hour per dayAbility to work in temperatures over 80 degrees, up to 3 hours per dayCandidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, 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 Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to