Welder (Starship) – Temporary

SpaceX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Welders in this temporary position will participate in an accelerated training program at the SpaceX South Texas build site, preparing to qualify for welding on the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles through intensive hands-on instruction and certification. Under the mentorship of seasoned experts, trainees will simulate and progressively master the fabrication of the primary airframe, including cylindrical tanks, bulkheads, and large associated structures, building the precision skills needed for flight-ready hardware. Upon successful qualification, participants will join an elite team to rapidly execute these fabrication tasks, advancing the production of groundbreaking multiplanetary vehicles.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalency certificate
1+ month of experience welding or certificate of completion for welding from an accredited program within the last 2 years
Role requires passing a weld test per AWS D17.1
Must be available for all shifts (day shift, 6 AM - 6 PM or night shift, 6 PM - 6 AM), overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required
Ability to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum
Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 25 lbs) unassisted
Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings and climbing hand over hand
Ability to work at elevated heights (up to 200 feet) and in confined spaces
Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain
Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
Stand: Up to 10 hours per day
Sit: Up to 1 hour per day
Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) 30 minutes to 1 hour per day
Overhead reach: Up to 6 hours per day
Walk: Up to 6 hours per day
Lift/Carry: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day
Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 3 hours per day
Kneel/Crouch: Up to 6 hours per day
Upper body twist: Up to 6 hours per day
Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 30 minutes or less per day
Candidate must be capable of safely using an air purifying respirator, operating heavy equipment and machinery, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description. Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review.
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. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Nice To Haves

3+ years of experience in TIG welding with one or more of the following materials: stainless steel, carbon steel, Inconel, aluminum and titanium
Highly proficient in tube cutting, grinding and fabrication
Highly experience in class A welds
Certifications with AWS D17.1 and D1.2
Knowledge in DC welding techniques, and engineering requirements
Knowledge in standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade
Knowledge in occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the trade
Knowledge in arc air procedures and equipment
Experience in overhead cranes and forklifts
Use of precision measuring instruments
Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

Responsibilities

GTAW class A welds; cut, trim, fit and fabricate metal components to dimensions for building and assembling
Collaborate with lead welder to ensure that the proper weld procedure, type of material and rod size are accurately assessed for each welding project
Analyze engineering drawings and specifications to plan welding operations where procedural information is unavailable
Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly
Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment
Weld assembly and fabrication of various small to large scale structures and assemblies
Effectively communicate with management/supervisors, engineering staff and planners to achieve build efficiency
Modify repair, assemble, and install launch vehicles
Check work after completion of each operation in job and/or completed job to ensure it is complete per drawing
Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in approved manner
Install and assemble custom and off-the-shelf tooling and machinery for building primary tank structure
Setup of safety equipment and work platforms at elevation
Operate general shop equipment and vehicles (forklifts, boom lifts, scissor lifts, etc.)