Apprentice Weld Support Technician

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; McGregor (TX); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in Texas is seeking an Apprentice Weld Support Technician responsible for performing tasks such as plasma programming and operating various machinery. You will analyze engineering drawings and ensure efficient collaboration with team leaders to solve problems and meet project deadlines. The position requires an Associate’s degree and hands-on experience with welding or machining in a fast-paced environment. Candidates must also be able to lift heavy loads and work in varied physical conditions.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or certification required.
• Experience with hand tools and blueprint reading.
• 1+ years of experience with plasma table programming preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform plasma table programming and operating machinery.
• Analyze engineering drawings to determine dimensions.
• Work collaboratively to complete tasks efficiently.

Skills

Plasma table programming

Blueprint reading

Hand tool operation

Measurement instruments

Cutting or machining operations

Education

Associate’s degree or certification from a 2-year technical school

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

APPRENTICE WELD SUPPORT TECHNICIAN

We are currently seeking to fill a weld support technician position at our Texas Test Site. This position requires skills in a specialized trade in order to complete welding requirements and operational needs. The position is responsible for executing the activities of the weld support team (plasma programming/operating, saw, material movements in and around the shop, and cross‑training across these functions).

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform tasks such as: plasma table programming, operating a band saw and chop saw, manually drilling and milling materials, etc.
• Analyze engineering drawings to determine dimensions and tolerances of cut parts
• Obtain and maintain licenses, operator permits, or certifications as required
• Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly
• Work with leaders to complete the assignment/project, solve problems, meet deadlines, and review issues for consistent improvement
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, to ensure an efficient and effective work environment

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate’s degree or certification from a 2-year technical school
• Experience with hand tools and blueprint reading (experience gained through a 2-year college or technical program counts)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• 1+ years of experience with plasma table programming/operating
• Ability to use measuring instruments of all types
• Experience working in cutting or machining operations
• Experience in a high‑mix, low‑volume (job shop) manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the trade
• Ability to rapidly change focus while working in a high‑paced, challenging work environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Working conditions may be in tight quarters; physical dexterity is required
• Ability to work while standing up to 8 hours, kneeling, crouching, twisting the upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings, and climbing hand over hand
• Able to lift heavy objects up to 45 lbs unassisted

• Ability to work on ladders, lifts, and at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with proper personal protection equipment (PPE)
• Able to respond to emergencies to support priority projects, missions, and launches
• Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Able to work in extreme outdoor environments when needed – heat, cold, wind, rain, etc.
• Able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Ability and willingness to travel nationally for up to four weeks – travel will be less than 15%
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (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 required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.

EEO STATEMENT

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].