Launch Operations Technician (Starship) - Night Shift

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; United States; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP is seeking a Launch Operations Technician to join our team for the night shift. The position is crucial for the integration of various components into the primary structure of our spacecraft. Candidates must have a high school diploma, along with 2+ years of experience in propulsion, mechanical, or avionics hardware installation.

This role involves physical demands such as lifting, climbing, and exposure to various environmental conditions, with responsibilities including hardware testing and collaboration with engineers.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate required.
• Must have at least 2 years of relevant installation experience, preferably in a high-reliability environment.

Responsibilities

• Integrate avionics and mechanical systems into the vehicle.
• Stage, set up, and install flight hardware.
• Perform pneumatic testing and handle large fragile assemblies.

Skills

Pneumatic and avionics integration

Use of precision-calibrated tools

Mechanical tools operation

Collaboration with production engineers

Ability to operate heavy equipment

Education

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

2+ years of relevant installation experience

Tools

Forklifts

Cranes

Heavy transport equipment

Job description

Launch Operations Technician (Starship) – Night Shift

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is 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.

Launch Operations Technician is responsible for the integration of all secondary structure, avionics, and stage propulsion components and systems into the vehicle’s primary structure. The role requires both avionics and mechanical integration skills, along with pneumatic and avionics checkout activity.

Responsibilities

• Stage, set up, assemble, test, and install flight hardware
• Use precision‑calibrated tools
• Provide hands‑on operations with large and small fragile assemblies
• Oversee heavy rigging for large assemblies
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and work instructions
• Perform work according to procedures, specifications, and test instructions
• Use various mechanical tools without prior instruction
• Collaborate with production engineers to develop and document integration processes
• Ensure all production services are performed on time, safely, and in a professional manner
• Perform fluids and pneumatic testing

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of professional propulsion, mechanical, automotive, electrical, or avionics hardware installation experience (experience from a 2+ year technical college program counts)

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant license
• Experience in the aerospace industry, aviation, military, or other high‑reliability operating environment
• Experience with forklifts, cranes, and heavy transport equipment
• Knowledge of pressure, temperature, and flow measurement devices, mechanical and electrical systems, and propulsion engines
• Skill in operating and manipulating machinery and various hand and power tools requiring manual dexterity
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high‑paced, challenging work environment
• Proficient with computers and the ability to use Microsoft Office
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to travel for short and extended trips as needed (up to 30% travel)
• Work is performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Regular hours for this position are 6:00 PM‑6:00 AM, including extended hours and weekends as needed
• Stand: up to 10 hours per day
• Sit: up to 10 hours per day
• Push/Pull: up to 75 lbs. (unassisted) between 1 and 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 and 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 for 6 hours or more per day
• Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500 ft.), in confined spaces, operating heavy equipment and machinery, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed. Candidate may be required to complete a pre‑employment questionnaire or physical exam.
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be (i) a U.S. citizen or national, (ii) a U.S. lawful permanent resident, (iii) a refugee, or (iv) an asylee, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.

SpaceX is a federal contractor or subcontractor. Applicant must meet U.S. Government export regulations, including ITAR compliance. Learn more about ITAR regulations here.