Launch Pad Engineer, Fluid Systems (Falcon 9)
About The Position
SpaceX is seeking a Launch Pad Engineer to join the Launch Pad Engineering Team in Vandenberg. The role uses multidisciplinary engineering knowledge and creativity to develop launch pad designs, builds, and operations while maximizing efficiency without compromising safety or reliability. The engineer ensures launch pad ground support equipment is properly designed, built, configured, and tested to meet Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy interface requirements. During build campaigns, the engineer leads technicians in accurately and promptly installing and activating pad fluid systems. The position serves as the responsible engineer for one or more launch pad fluid systems, which may include compressible, incompressible, and cryogenic systems. The engineer supports system troubleshooting, design and build work, maintenance, upgrades, operations, and automation improvements; leads the pad through design, construction, and activation; and presents certification packages and engineering data to government agencies. One weekend shift per month is required. The position may involve flexible shifts and occasional travel.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, chemical engineering, physics, or another engineering discipline.
- At least 1 year of professional experience working with fluid, mechanical, or low-voltage electrical systems.
- Ability to pass an Air Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base and Cape Canaveral.
- Ability to stand and lift or carry moderately heavy materials or equipment weighing 15 to 35 lbs.
- Ability to maintain prolonged mental concentration in a high-concentration, high-stress environment, potentially during extended work hours.
- Ability to be flexible on shifts.
- Occasional travel may be required.
- Must meet the stated U.S. Government export-control eligibility requirements or be eligible to obtain required authorizations.
Nice To Haves
- Experience at a rocket launch or test facility supporting launch or test campaigns.
- Experience using and troubleshooting control systems for remote operations and instrumentation feedback.
- Experience with 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, including high-pressure, high-energy, or hazardous gas and fluid systems.
- Familiarity with instrumentation and control components such as pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoids, and 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 for constant improvement, balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the responsible engineer for one or multiple launch pad fluid systems, including compressible, incompressible, and/or cryogenic fluid systems.
- Use knowledge of heat transfer, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, controls, and instrumentation to troubleshoot launch pad system issues.
- Work with and direct technicians in design, build, troubleshooting, maintenance, upgrades, and operational procedures.
- Contribute to development and improvement of functional automation for assigned fluid systems.
- Identify and implement upgrades to launch pad hardware, software, and procedures, and drive continuous improvement through regular coordination with teams across SpaceX.
- Serve as the lead engineer for the pad during design, construction, and activation.
- Present certification packages and engineering data to U.S. government agencies, including NASA and the U.S. Space Force.
- Cover one weekend shift per month.
Benefits
- Potential eligibility for long-term incentives in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards.
- Potential discretionary bonuses.
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan with the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount.
- Comprehensive medical coverage.
- Vision coverage.
- Dental coverage.
- 401(k) retirement plan.
- Short- and long-term disability insurance.
- Life insurance.
- Paid parental leave.
- Various other discounts and perks.
- Up to 3 weeks of accrued paid vacation.
- 10 or more paid holidays per year.
- Paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
