Mechanical Engineer, Launch Mount/Tower (Starship)

The role

You will develop the Starship Tower, Launch Mount, and test stands from architecture through operations. This includes designing welded structures, large-scale mechanisms, and fluid-power systems to support vehicle testing and launch.

What you will do

• Drive hardware development for systems within the Starship tower, launch mount and test stands
• Own design and manufacturing of mechanisms, actuation systems, fluid systems, and large structures
• Perform structural, dynamic, thermal, and fluid analysis to determine requirements and optimize design
• Work with software and operations engineers to develop concept of operations
• Collaborate with engineers designing the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience with CAD and FEA software packages
• 1+ years of experience with mechanical or fluid systems design, analysis, and hands-on assembly
• Physical dexterity is required for working in tight quarters at high elevations
• Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary
• Stand: Up to 6 hours per day
• Sit: Up to 6 hours per day
• Push/Pull: Up to ≤ 50 lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 3 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 10 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: Up to ≤ 25 lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 10 hours per day

Nice to have

• Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline
• 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis
• 2+ years of hands-on project experience with complex mechanical systems, preferably as a lead
• Solid understanding and application of GD&T and manufacturing techniques
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems and weldments
• Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills

Before you apply

• Applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, Refugee, or Asylee, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State
• Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm capabilities, which may include a medical history review

About the company

SpaceX is developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. The company was founded on the belief that a future where humanity explores the stars is more exciting than one where we are not.