Test Operations Engineer (Falcon Stage Test)

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.

TEST OPERATIONS ENGINEER (FALCON STAGE TEST)

At SpaceX, our commitment to reliability begins with design but is realized through exhaustive testing at the Rocket Development Facility in McGregor, TX. In order 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 Operations 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 space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or 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.