Launch Pad Technician

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 PAD TECHNICIAN

We are currently looking for motivated, energetic, and enthusiastic mechanical technicians to maintain the launch pad mechanical and fluid systems in preparation for launch operations. These systems include hydraulics, high-pressure nitrogen and helium, and cryogenic systems.

In addition to the required experience below, our ideal candidate is someone who shows personal initiative and maintains their composure and a good attitude. SpaceX employees must be responsible, hardworking, and conscientious about the quality of work performed. We need people who are not afraid to make suggestions and won’t get discouraged along the way. Our strongest candidates are able to produce high-quality work in a timely manner while continually looking forward to needed process improvements, streamlining of work, and cost savings.

Responsibilities
• Fabricate and install fluid system components from a schematic or engineering drawing including but not limited to ball valves, check valves, pressure regulators, and pressure gauges.
• Troubleshoot operational issues found during activation of fluid and mechanical systems.
• Work with a team of technicians and engineers to ensure every system is built with the highest level of quality to support 100% successful launch of a multimillion dollar launch vehicle.
• Operate heavy machinery including forklifts and aerial platforms.
• Hands-on operations with both large and small, fragile assemblies.
• Perform maintenance tasks as required in a variety of roles for vehicle integration, pad maintenance, site preventative maintenance, general facilities, and any other general maintenance work as required to maintain an operational launch site (includes corrosion control).

Basic Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 2+ years of experience using power tools in a professional capacity.

Preferred Skills And Experience
• Associate's degree in aerospace technology or equivalent area of study.
• ASE certification and/or mechanical automotive experience.
• Experience working on a rocket launch pad and directly supporting launch operations.
• Military aviation experience as a propulsion or airframe technician.
• Experience using heavy equipment such as: overhead cranes, forklifts, and man lifts.
• Ability to follow detailed schematics and be able to fabricate fluid panels from said schematics.
• Extensive knowledge of hydraulic and cryogenic systems and operations.
• Ability to bend and route tube in the field to a high level of accuracy.
• Ability to explain the differences between test setups: hydraulic vs. pneumatic vs. thermal and between sensors (load cells, differential pressure transducers, thermocouples etc.).
• Experience maintaining and troubleshooting complex fluid and mechanical systems, including analyzing flow path and proper relief systems.
• Ability to safely rig and move items under 20,000 lbs.
• Ability to perform a hydrotest and pneumostat on any component with little to no direction.
• Ability to operate and build a flush cart, proof cart, and leak check cart.
• Experience working in a clean room environment.
• Ability to obtain or currently hold Top Secret/ SCI security clearance.
• Familiarity with calibrated measurement devices including load cells, multimeters, calipers, torque wrenches, depth gauges, and micrometers.

Additional Requirements
• Ability to pass Space Force background checks for Vandenberg, CA and Cape Canaveral, FL.
• Ability to obtain respirator certification to apply ablative, paint, puck and martyte.
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, and working on ladders/lifts at elevated heights.
• Ability to lift 35 lbs. unassisted.
• Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain.
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise.
• Work schedule varies depending on site operational needs, and flexibility is required.
• Must be willing to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary.
• General physical fitness is required for some work areas; flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required.
• Must be willing to work either day shift (5AM - 5PM) or night shift (5PM - 5AM).

Compensation And Benefits

Pay range:

Launch Pad Technician/Level 1: $22.00 - $2+.75/hour

Launch Pad Technician/Level 2: $27.50 - $35.75/hour

Launch Pad Technician/Level 3: $33.00 - $41.75/hour

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.

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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000. Read more