Instrumentation Fitter

SpaceX; McGregor (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX in McGregor, Texas seeks an Instrumentation Fitter to install, maintain, and troubleshoot ground support equipment and instrumentation for LOX and fuel systems. The role involves building pipes, maintaining high-pressure systems, and collaborating with design engineers to improve testing operations.

Candidates should have a high school diploma and 2+ years of industrial experience in pipe installation or high-pressure environments.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years of industrial experience in pipe installation or high-pressure systems.

Responsibilities

• Build, install, maintain, and troubleshoot GSE equipment for LOX and fuel pads.
• Maintain and repair instrumentation and high-pressure systems.
• Operate hardware, pumps, and pneumatic components.
• Fabricate and repair GSE hardware.
• Collaborate with design engineers on GSE activities.
• Ensure materials meet Clean for Oxygen Service standards.
• Obtain necessary licenses or certifications.
• Support engine testing and structural test stand programs.

Skills

GSE experience

Mechanical aptitude

Hand tools

Power tools

Reading schematics

High-pressure systems

Cryogenic systems

NPT/AN fittings

Inspection instruments

Heavy equipment operation

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Borescope inspection

Precision measuring tools

Pneumatic equipment

Cryogenic handling gear

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.

INSTRUMENTATION FITTER

Responsibilities

• Provide ground support equipment (GSE) technician support, which involves building, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment such such as pumps, tanks, valves, and plumbing related to the liquid oxygen (LOX), fuel pad, and other aspects of the site facility
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment and instrumentation as needed
• Operate and maintain 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 and safety policies
• 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 environments
• Experience in ground support equipment in the 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 play a critical role
• Knowledge of high vacuum systems
• Knowledge of all types of bore scope inspection equipment
• Knowledge of different fittings such as national pipe taper (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

• Valid driver’s license
• Flight hardware typically is built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is necessary to perform job functions
• The ability to lift heavy objects is required in this position (up to 25lbs unassisted)
• Must be able to work at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with proper PPE
• Must be able to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain, etc.
• Must be able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, noise, and hazardous environments
• Must be able to work in elevated PPE, including supplied air respirators and chemical-resistant self-encapsulating suits
• Must be available to work overtime, weekends, and rotating shifts as needed based on site operational needs; flexibility required
• Must be able to and available for travel (up to 20% of the time), including military and government installations

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.

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 Affluate Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].