Build Engineer, COPVS (Starship)

About the role

The build engineer is responsible for production, qualification, and the design/analysis of hardware manufactured on the lines, as well as advancement of the manufacturing system itself. Development scope includes identifying inputs, detailed design and analysis, design reviews, qualification, and production implementation.

This includes mechanical testing, weld process development, inspection techniques, personnel access, and all associated tooling required to create COPVs for Starship and Super Heavy Booster. Additional responsibilities include developing and reviewing work instructions as designs evolve and resolving issues that often require one-off analysis to determine the path forward.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with vehicle analysts to ensure solutions meet the requirements for vehicle design as well as the manufacturing processes
• Develop production procedures/processes and manage the transition of parts and assemblies from development to high-rate production
• Coordinate and execute development, qualification, and acceptance testing of systems and tooling needed to meet hardware deadlines
• Execute design for manufacturability changes to enhance production efficiency
• Create original CAD models and prints for flight and/or tooling components
• Lead the on-site design engineering for the efficient build of parts and assemblies
• Create and maintain build schedules
• Resolve and analyze manufacturing discrepancies while interfacing with the quality team (resolving issues for design, fabrication, and assembly)
• Participate in design reviews internally and with suppliers and customers
• Partner with engineering & production teams to generate ideas, designs, and improvements for current and next-generation vehicles
• Source, retain, and advise new and experienced vendors from a technical perspective

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering
• 1+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing or production (internship and school projects experience qualify)

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Master's degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, materials or industrial engineering
• Involvement in a professional engineering society or collegiate design project
• Experience with the build, assembly, or integration of large mechanical assemblies
• Knowledge of composite manufacturing techniques, processes, and equipment related to resin curing, cylinder cleaning & inspection, and pressurized testing
• Knowledge of metallic manufacturing techniques, processes, and equipment related to welding, metal forming, fastening, drilling, bonding and automation
• Mechanical component and/or tooling design and analysis experience using 3D CAD software
• Experience with design for manufacture and assembly (DFMA)
• Experience transitioning complex products from R&D to high-volume manufacturing in a fast-paced environment
• Experience writing work instructions and procedures for critical aerospace parts
• Experience in a production environment within the aerospace industry

Additional Requirements

• Position will be based in Westminster, MD and will require relocation if not already local
• Must be able to work extended hours and weekends based on site operational needs
• Stand: Up to 3 hours per day
• Sit: Up to 6 hours per day
• Push/Pull: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) Up to 15 minutes per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 3 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 3 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: Up to 25lbs. (unassisted) Up to 15 minutes per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 1 hour per day
• Kneel/Crouch: N/A
• Upper body twist: N/A

Pay Range

Level 1: $100,000.00 - $117,500.00

Level 2: $115,000.00 - $140,000.00

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 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.

Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

Itar Requirements

• 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.