Materials R&D Technician – Cryogenic Testing Lab

Spacex; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Materials R&D Technician for Starship to push materials development for high-performance flight hardware. You will join a team operating a materials test lab, performing advanced mechanical tests, and supporting design and production with test data.

The role requires hands-on lab experience, machining and composites skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment near SpaceX launch facilities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 1+ years of machining experience.
• Layup, bonding, or assembly of composites.
• Hands-on experience in a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• Perform standardized mechanical tests (tensile, compression, fatigue, fracture toughness) at cryogenic, room, and elevated temperatures.
• Operate mechanical testing software and data reporting.
• Support non-standard testing with engineering for launcher hardware.
• Fabricate test articles (machining, welding, fixturing).
• Characterize materials and welds using microscopes, FTIR, SEM/EDS, and related tools.
• Operate CNC machines and ensure calibration of test equipment.
• Analyze data and report results to engineering teams.
• Maintain a clean, organized workstation and temperature loggers.

Skills

Machining experience

Composites layup/bonding/assembly

Lab testing experience

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SEM/EDS/FTIR

Microscopes

CNC programming (preferred)

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a Materials R&D Technician for Starship to push materials development for high-performance flight hardware. You will join a team operating a materials test lab, performing advanced mechanical tests, and supporting design and production with test data.

The role requires hands-on lab experience, machining and composites skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment near SpaceX launch facilities.