SR. FLUIDS SYSTEMS ENGINEER, STRUCTURAL TEST (STARSHIP) 

The Starship structural test team is responsible for testing the limits of Starship’s primary structure and propulsion/fluids systems. We are seeking a senior fluids systems engineer who will be both an individual contributor and a technical leader in implementing cryogenic propellant processing for the Starship test site to help enable the application of flight-like loads and environments to Starships that fly! You will have the opportunity to use your multi-disciplinary knowledge, experience, and creativity to architect the fluids and cryogenic propellant processing systems needed to support high-cadence Starship tests and launches. Join the team responsible for testing and launching the largest and most powerful rocket known to man!

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Perform thermofluid analysis and other design tasks associated with gaseous and liquid (including cryogenic liquid) fluid systems
• Serve as the responsible fluid systems engineer of one or multiple test pad fluid systems including gaseous, liquid, and/or cryogenic fluid systems
• Ensure Starship meets a high launch cadence by re-configuring and architecting the test pad fluid systems for fast and seamless propellant transfer
• Work with vehicle and test engineers to understand requirements and develop systems from conception
• Manage interdisciplinary engineering projects from concept through design, build, and activation
• Perform data review and troubleshoot hardware associated with your and other fluid systems

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering discipline
• 5+ years of work experience in aerospace, mechanical, or other engineering field

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns
• Experience using CAESAR II or similar pipe stress analysis programs
• Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar computer-aided design (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.)
• 5+ years of hands-on build or design experience (internship, club, and competition team experience qualifies)
• Familiarity with instrumentation and control components (pressure transducers, thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors (RTD), strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoids, 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

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• 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 occasionally (scissor lifts and articulating boom lifts)
• Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required
• Able to lift heavy objects, up to 25lbs unassisted

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:       

Pay range:    
Fluid Systems Engineer/Senior: $125,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year    

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.