Launch Engineer, Fluid Systems (Launch Pad)

SpaceX•Vandenberg Village, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

SpaceX is currently seeking an individual to join the Launch Pad Engineering Team in Vandenberg. You will have the opportunity to utilize your multi-disciplinary knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop solutions to launch pad design, build, and operations with the goal of maximizing efficiency without sacrificing safety or reliability. You will be responsible for ensuring all aspects of launch pad GSE (ground support equipment) have been properly designed, built, configured, and tested to support Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy interface requirements. During build operations, you will be responsible for leading a team of technicians on the pads throughout the build campaign to ensure accurate and timely installation and activation of the pad fluid systems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, chemical engineering, physics, or other engineering discipline
1+ years of professional experience working with fluid, mechanical, or low voltage electrical systems
Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base and Cape Canaveral
Physical effort including standing, lifting and carrying moderately heavy materials or equipment (15 to 35 lbs.)
Overall mental fitness with the ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment requiring prolonged mental concentration (under possible extended work hours)
Ability to be flexible on shifts
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.

Nice To Haves

Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns
Experience using and troubleshooting control systems for remote operations and instrumentation feedback
Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar CAD software
Experience using python or other programming languages for data review and analysis
Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases & fluids, etc.)
Familiarity with instrumentation and control components (pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoid, pneumatic valves)
Knowledge of engineering standards and best practices such as ASME B31.3, ASME BPV Code Section VIII, and AFSPCMAN 91-710
Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure, fast paced environment
Strong communication and presentation skills
Strong work ethic and drive to for constant improvement balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment
Occasional travel may be required

Responsibilities

Serve as the responsible engineer for one or multiple launch pad fluid systems including compressible, incompressible, and/or cryogenic fluid systems
Utilize knowledge of heat transfer, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, controls, and instrumentation to troubleshoot issues present in various launch pad systems
Work with, and direct, a skilled technician workforce to carry out design, build, troubleshooting, maintenance activities, upgrades, and operational procedures
Contribute to the development and improvement of the functional automation relating to the fluid system(s) for which you are responsible
Identify and implement upgrades to launch pad hardware, software, and procedures – drive continuous improvement in these areas by interfacing regularly with various teams across SpaceX
Serve as the lead engineer for the pad during design, construction, and activation
Represent SpaceX by presenting certification packages and engineering data to U.S. government agencies including NASA, US Space Force and others