Test Specialist - Multiple Shifts (Components)
About the role
SpaceX’s Propulsion Components team develops the most advanced spacecraft and launch vehicle components in the world. Our rapid growth has created opportunities for a Test Specialist to join the components test operations group, supporting the production of components and assemblies for the Falcon, Dragon, and Starship vehicles.
The components test operations group designs, builds, operates, and maintains custom test stands and test fixtures for valves, regulators, and actuators that must perform in extreme environments, with temperatures ranging from +900°F to -400°F and pressures beyond 10,000 psig. Test Specialists play a crucial role in the design process by giving engineers input on how the resources will be independently operated and maintained. They are primarily responsible for constructing, running, and maintaining these test facilities.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the design of test fixtures, test setups, and test stands to be used in production and/or for development
- Independently fabricate or build the following in accordance with defined specifications:
- Instrumentation including DAQ hardware and wire harnesses
- Electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems including hazardous high-pressure gas systems and high-voltage electrical systems
- Independently troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems
- Perform tests independently or with engineers according to test procedures and design requirements
- Independently summarize and distribute test data and preliminary test results to all interested parties
- Collaborate with engineers to develop and document test procedures
- Comprehend the importance and urgency of tasks and complete them on time
- Identify and implement process improvements
- Lead anomaly investigations and work toward resolution
- Provide testing support for production when needed
- Assist in the tracking and servicing of critical calibrated instrumentation
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 3+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment
- Must be available for one of the following shifts:
- 1st shift start time: 8:00 AM
- 2nd shift start time: 2:30 PM
- Must be available to work overtime and weekends as needed
- Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces
- Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs. unassisted
- 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.
Skills
- Associate or bachelor's degree with a focus in physics, mathematics, or engineering (preferred)
- Ability to read and understand electro-mechanical schematics
- Ability to read and understand plumbing and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID)
- Ability to read mechanical assembly drawings and blueprints
- Ability to install and operate instrumentation, including: strain gages, deflection gages, pressure transducers, load cells, thermocouples, RTDs, accelerometers, and analog circuitry
- Ability to fabricate and repair electrical systems, including: soldering, crimping, and assembling connectors
- Ability to fabricate high-pressure plumbing systems, including: tube flaring, tube bending, and cone-&-threading
- Ability to fabricate mechanical components and assemblies, including: milling, drilling, turning, and torqueing
- Knowledge/experience operating and maintaining pneumatic and hydraulic components, including: valves, regulators, and accumulators
- Knowledge/experience operating basic machine shop equipment, including: sanders, grinders, saws, and benders
- Knowledge/experience with test operations procedures including hydraulic load control, hydro/pneumatic pressure control, and safe handling of flight parts
- Knowledge/experience with high-pressure or cryogenic systems (gaseous and liquid)
- Knowledge/experience with high-voltage systems (AC and DC)
- Knowledge/experience working with electrical components and/or systems
- 3+ years of experience with pressure testing (preferred)
Pay
Compensation and benefits:
- Level 1: $33.00 - $39.00/hour
- Level 2: $37.00 - $44.00/hour
- Level 3: $41.00 - $50.00/hour
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
- Access to a 401(k) retirement plan
- Short and long-term disability insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid parental leave
- Various discounts and perks
- 3 weeks of paid vacation
- 10 or more paid holidays per year