Welding Inspector Specialist

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Starbase (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Weld Inspector Specialist to perform weld inspections per codes, interpret specs, and document results. You will develop WPS and welder qualification records, verify layouts with precision tools, and ensure safety and quality on complex aerospace welds.

The role requires CWI certification and 5+ years in welding/fabrication, plus travel up to 20% and ability to work in demanding environments. Expect rigorous quality control and close collaboration with manufacturing teams.

Qualifications

• Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification required.
• 3+ years of weld inspection experience.
• 5+ years in structural or pipe fabrication and welding.
• Experience with NDE methods and UT inspections.

Responsibilities

• Perform internal and external inspections to verify weldment acceptance per codes.
• Interpret codes and specs according to drawing requirements.
• Compile and submit data on weld quality using a computer.
• Recommend repairs and perform visual inspections of completed work.
• Develop welding procedure specifications (WPS) and complete welder qualification records.
• Apply appropriate industry standards or internal requirements on site.
• Use theodolite and other tools to assist/layout verification.
• Perform related duties to ensure an efficient work environment.

Skills

Attention to detail

Safety-conscious

Flexibility

Accurate documentation

Education

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification

3+ years of weld inspection experience

5+ years in structural or pipe fabrication/welding

NDE/UT inspections experience

Tools

Theodolite

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.

WELDING INSPECTOR SPECIALIST

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform internal and external inspections to determine if a weldment meets the acceptance criteria of a specific code, standard, or document
• Properly interpret codes and specifications in accordance with the drawing requirements
• Use a computer to compile and submit data on acceptance or rejection of weld quality, as well as for inter-office communications
• Pay attention to detail and be capable of recommending and approving repairs, as well as performing a visual inspection of completed work
• Select or develop welding procedure specifications (WPS) and complete welder qualification records
• Apply industry standards or internal requirements to inspections, as directed and based on site needs
• Use theodolite and other tools to assist and/or confirm the layout
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification
• 3+ years of experience in weld inspection
• 5+ years of experience in structural or pipe fabrication and welding
• Experience working with nondestructive examination (NDE) methodologies and ultrasonic testing (UT) inspections

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Excel
• The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) level II certifications in magnetic particle inspection (MT)/ultrasonic testing (UT)/visual welding inspection (VT)
• Extensive knowledge of industry standards, including the American Welding Society (AWS) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standards
• D1.1 endorsement preferred
• 5+ years of experience with oxy-acetylene, fitting, arc gouging, and electronic welding equipment
• General mechanical skills in concrete, machining, and alignment/setting
• Knowledge of welding techniques, metallurgy, and engineering requirements
• Knowledge of standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade
• Knowledge of ferrous and non-ferrous metals in relation to welding and brazing
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the trade
• Use of precision measuring instruments
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
• Familiarity with various aerospace materials, such as aluminum (6061 and 2219), various grades of stainless steel, Inconel, Monel, etc.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Anticipated hours for this role are 6:00 am - 6:00 pm
• Ability to work multiple shifts and change shifts with minimal notice; flexibility required
• Ability to travel to different sites, as needed, up to 20% travel
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting the upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings, and climbing hand-over-hand
• Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Stand: Up to 10 hours per day
• Sit: Up to 10 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 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 500ft), in confined spaces, 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
• 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 ... or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail] .