Fabrication Technician

About the role

Fabrication technicians at Starbase, TX, will work to build, maintain, and upgrade mechanical and fluid systems to support various SpaceX rocket testing and launch campaigns. This technician will work with an elite team to rapidly build launch propellant assemblies that will contribute to the Starship program.

Responsibilities

• Provide ground support equipment (GSE) technician support which involves building, installing, maintaining and troubleshooting equipment such as pumps, tanks, valves and plumbing related to the liquid oxygen (LOX) pad, fuel pad, and other aspects of the site facility
• Operating hardware, high pressure systems and pumps, and other ancillary equipment including pneumatic components
• Fabricate and repair GSE hardware and equipment
• Collaborate with design engineers to develop and document GSE activities
• Ensure all materials are clean and inspected according to Clean for Oxygen Service Standards
• Build and maintain structural and engine test equipment
• Obtain and maintain licenses, operator permits or certifications as required
• Follow all necessary regulations and appropriate SpaceX procedures including quality policies, safety policies, OSHA, EPA, NIOSH, NFPA, ASME, NEC, etc.
• Develop novel ways site wide to streamline processes and increase the reliability of testing operations
• Perform a variety of related duties in support of engine testing and structural test stand programs

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of industrial experience such as installing pipe and components, bending stainless tubes, or working around high pressure systems or mechanical systems

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience in the space exploration industry, military or other high-reliability operating environment
• Experience in ground support equipment in an aerospace industry
• Mechanical aptitude and experience (work with machines and general tooling)
• Formalized mechanical training, skilled in hand and power tool usage
• A demonstrated experience where quick-thinking and problem solving plays a critical role
• Knowledge of high vacuum systems
• Knowledge of medium pressure systems
• Knowledge of all types of bore scope inspection equipment
• Knowledge of different fittings such as NPT and A/N
• Ability to utilize power tools and hand tools as well as heavy equipment
• Use of precision measuring instruments
• Ability to read and understand mechanical and electrical schematics
• Knowledge of hazardous systems - cryogenic, flammable, hypergolic, pyrophoric
• Knowledge of high-pressure system design and handling
• Experience using test instrumentation and control components

Additional Requirements

• Anticipated hours for this position are Monday - Friday, 6:00 PM - 6:00 PM
• Must be available for overtime and weekends as needed based on site operational needs; flexibility is required
• Stand: Up to 10 hours per day
• Sit: Up to 3 hours per day
• Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 10 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 10 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: up to 50 lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 6 hours per day
• Kneel/Crouch: Up to 10 hours per day
• Upper body twist: Up to 6 hours per day
• Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 6 hours or greater per day
• Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, 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

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.