Cryogenic ASU Process Operator for LOX Production

SpaceX; Brownsville (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is creating its first production-scale Air Separation Unit at Starbase to supply ultra-pure LOX for Starship propulsion. The Process Operator Specialist will run cryogenic distillation, turboexpanders, and other equipment, performing rounds and procedural steps under supervision while gaining independent watch standing.

The role emphasizes hands-on learning of cryogenic thermodynamics, safety, and continuous improvement in reliability, purity, and housekeeping in a high-stakes environment

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 1+ year experience in industrial environment or plant operations dealing with air separation units, cryogenics, industrial gases, chemical, or oil & gas.

Responsibilities

• Monitor the ASU via DCS/HMI and field rounds, identifying deviations early and reporting.
• Execute plant startups, shutdowns, mode changes, and abnormal situation responses per procedures.
• Support troubleshooting, maintenance, and calibration of ASU equipment including compressors, turboexpanders, distillation columns, and analysers.
• Collect process samples, perform basic field testing, log data accurately, and escalate when conditions differ from procedures.
• Perform lockout/tagout, permit-to-work, job hazard analyses, and PSM activities; maintain 5S and housekeeping.
• Learn and qualify on SOPs for major ASU systems and aid shift pass-down.
• Contribute to reliability, purity, and housekeeping improvements in the ASU.
• Develop understanding of cryogenic thermodynamics, distillation, adsorption, and system performance.
• Prepare for next shift to keep board and field ready for operation.

Skills

P&IDs

Process flow diagrams

Cryogenic plant experience

Lockout/Tagout

PSM practices

HMI operation

Industrial electrical equipment

Shift work experience

Thermodynamics fundamentals

Troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Honeywell/HMI

Gas analyzers

Cryogenic distillation equipment

Molecular sieve beds

Job description

SpaceX is creating its first production-scale Air Separation Unit at Starbase to supply ultra-pure LOX for Starship propulsion. The Process Operator Specialist will run cryogenic distillation, turboexpanders, and other equipment, performing rounds and procedural steps under supervision while gaining independent watch standing.

The role emphasizes hands-on learning of cryogenic thermodynamics, safety, and continuous improvement in reliability, purity, and housekeeping in a high-stakes environment