Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical engineering or related field
1+ years of hands-on testing experience, including internships or extra-curricular activities
3+ years of experience with mechanical, structural, propulsion, or fluid systems preferred
Experience with instrumentation and control systems
Ability to thrive in fast-paced and ambiguous environments
Responsibilities
Test rocket hardware for flight suitability
Provide technical support during test stand operations
Conduct real-time and post-test data reviews for performance evaluation
Innovate and optimize test processes to increase capability and rate
Identify system hazards and collaborate on improvements
Ensure safe operation of all testing processes
Carry out additional tasks to enhance work efficiency
Benefits
Opportunity to work at a cutting-edge aerospace company
Dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation
Engagement in hands-on testing and evaluation of flight hardware
Collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams
Exposure to advanced testing facilities and equipment
Full Job Description
TEST ENGINEER (FALCON TEST)
At SpaceX, our commitment to reliability begins with design but is realized through exhaustive testing at the Rocket Development Facility in McGregor, TX. To eliminate anomalies and ensure maximum product quality, the test team pushes our hardware to its limits in as close to flight-like conditions as possible. Test engineers are ultimately responsible for the entire test process. They develop test requirements, handle the test articles, operate test stand systems, conduct tests, analyze data to confirm performance, and inform the design/production process.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Test rocket hardware to determine suitability for flight
Provide on-console engineering support for technicians during daily test stand and hangar operations
Perform real-time and post-test data review to evaluate the performance of test article and stand systems (fluid, structural, thermal, electrical). This includes documenting test results and recommending areas for upgrades and improvement
Find innovative ways to create, review, and optimize test processes/procedures to increase testing capability and rate
Identify and characterize system pitfalls and potential hazards; then work to resolve these by collaborating with design, production, and launch engineers on improvements for flight hardware and processes
Serve as the final authority to ensure all operations are conducted in a safe manner
Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering or other engineering field
1+ years of hands-on testing experience (experience from internships, clubs or other hands-on extra-curricular activities qualifies)
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
3+ years of hands on experience with mechanical systems, structural systems, propulsion systems, fluid systems, flight hardware or test operations
Ability to thrive in ambiguous requirements and aggressive timelines
High levels of personal autonomy and self-driven motivation
Knowledge of hazardous systems (high pressure, cryogenic, flammable, hypergolic, pyrophoric)
High level of familiarity with instrumentation and control (programmable logic control, high speed data acquisition, pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoid valves)
Experience with code based data analytics (Python, R, MATLAB, NI LabVIEW) to solve real world problems
Demonstrated experience of effective root cause and failure analysis
Experience writing and optimizing high risk technical procedures and work instructions
Ability to read, understand and apply technical manuals, data reports, mechanical schematics, electrical schematics, and design specifications
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment, accomplishing tasks with limited resources at a rapid pace
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required
Physical effort including sitting or standing for extended periods of time, lifting and carrying weight such as materials or equipment (up to 25 lbs. unassisted)
Work performed in an environment with exposure to fumes, odors and noise
Occasionally exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments (heat, cold, rain)
Hours vary depending on site operational needs; flexibility required
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. a7 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. a7 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
About SpaceX
SpaceX is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Elon Musk. The company designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. SpaceX has developed the Falcon 1, Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Dragon spacecraft. The company was founded with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling the colonization of Mars. SpaceX has achieved several milestones in spaceflight, including the first privately-funded liquid-propellant rocket to reach orbit, the first privately-funded company to send a spacecraft to the International Space Station, and the first privately-funded company to send a human-rated spacecraft to orbit.
