Launch Pad Technician (Starship)

SpaceX; United States; On-site; USD 39,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Launch Pad Technician (Starship) to fabricate and install fluid system components per schematics, troubleshoot issues, and operate heavy machinery to support a high‑quality launch vehicle program.

You will work with engineers and technicians to ensure precise assembly, calibration, and integration of systems, with emphasis on safety, efficiency, and readiness for flight campaigns.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 1+ years of professional experience using power tools.
• Associate degree in aerospace technology or equivalent area of study.
• Experience working at a rocket launch facility and supporting launch campaigns.
• Experience with maintenance and troubleshooting of complex fluid and mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate and install fluid system components from schematics or drawings.
• Troubleshoot operational issues in activation of fluid and mechanical systems.
• Operate heavy machinery including forklifts and aerial platforms.
• Work with technicians and engineers to ensure quality for successful launches.
• Perform duties to improve operations, reduce turnaround times, and streamline processes.

Skills

Power tools

Rigging

Troubleshooting

Strong reading of schematics

Team collaboration

MS Office

Safety protocols

Cryogenic systems

Heavy equipment operation

Reading drawings

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in aerospace technology

Tools

Overhead cranes

Torque wrenches

Calibrated measuring tools

Forklifts

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.

LAUNCH PAD TECHNICIAN (STARSHIP)

RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Fabricate and install fluid system components from a schematic or engineering drawing, including but not limited to:

- Valves

- Filters

- Instrumentation devices

- Regulators

- Actuators

- ¼” to 2” tubing

- Troubleshoot operational issues found during activation of fluid and mechanical systems

- Operate heavy machinery including forklifts and aerial platforms

- Work with a team of technicians and engineers to ensure every system is built with the highest level of quality to support 100% successful launch of a multi-million dollar launch vehicle

- Hands-on operations with both large and small, fragile assemblies

- Structural member bolt-up and integration

- Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly

- Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

- High school diploma or equivalency certificate

- 1+ years of professional experience using power tools

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

- Associate degree in aerospace technology or equivalent area of study

- Experience working at a rocket launch facility and supporting launch campaigns

- Experience maintaining and troubleshooting complex fluid and mechanical systems

- Experience maintaining a propulsion test stand in the aerospace industry

- Military aviation experience as a propulsion or airframe technician

- Experience with overhead or complex rigging

- Experience with electrical or controls-related systems

- Experience with cryogenic systems

- Experience with orbital or structural welding

- Machining and metal fabrication experience

- Experience with calibrated torque wrenches and other advanced torque equipment

- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)

- Experience with mechanical repairs and troubleshooting

- Experience with pneumatic/hydraulic system fabrication

- SpaceTEC certification

- Experience with engine and transmission rebuilds

- Familiarity with calibrated measuring instruments

- Experience using heavy equipment, including but not limited to, overhead cranes, forklifts, and manlifts

- Commercial Driver’s license (CDL)

- Experience with car, truck, and heavy industrial preventative maintenance

- Ability to read, understand, and follow detailed schematics, drawings, and instructions

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

- Typical hours for this position, excluding overtime, are Monday – Friday 5:00am – 5:00pm

- Flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required

- Physical effort including standing, lifting, climbing, and carrying moderately heavy materials or equipment up to 35lb

- Ability to work at elevated heights (up to 300 ft)

- Periodic work in extreme outdoor environments: heat, cold, wind, rain

- Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed

- 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 10 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, using an air purifying respirator, 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 (https://www.pmddtc.state.gov/?id=ddtc_kb_article_page&sys_id=24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987).

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 Aff…? or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail] .