TIG Welder (Starship) - Level 4/5

About the role

Tank fabricators will build the primary airframe of the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles at the SpaceX South Texas build site. The role involves working with an elite team to rapidly construct the tank (cylindrical structure), tank bulkheads, and other large associated structures for the flight article design of both vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Perform GTAW class A welds; cut, trim, fit and fabricate metal components to dimensions for building and assembling
• Collaborate with lead welder to ensure proper weld procedure, material, and rod size are accurately assessed for each project
• Analyze engineering drawings and specifications to plan welding operations where procedural information is unavailable
• Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly
• Weld assembly and fabrication of various small to large scale structures and assemblies
• Communicate effectively with management/supervisors, engineering staff and planners to achieve build efficiency
• Modify, repair, assemble, and install launch vehicles
• Check work after completion of each operation or job to ensure it is complete per drawing
• Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in an approved manner
• Install and assemble custom and off-the-shelf tooling and machinery for building primary tank structure
• Set up safety equipment and work platforms at elevation
• Operate general shop equipment and vehicles (forklifts, boom lifts, scissor lifts, etc.)

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 7+ years of experience with TIG welding

Preferred Skills And Experience

• 10+ years of experience in TIG welding with one or more of the following materials: stainless steel, carbon steel, Inconel, aluminum and titanium
• Highly proficient in tube cutting, grinding and fabrication
• Highly experienced in class A welds
• Certifications with AWS D17.1 and D1.2
• Knowledge in DC welding techniques, and engineering requirements
• Knowledge in standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade
• Knowledge in occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the trade
• Knowledge in arc air procedures and equipment
• Experience in overhead cranes and forklifts
• Experience using precision measuring instruments
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

Additional Requirements

• Role requires passing a weld test per AWS D17.1
• Must be available for all shifts (day shift, 6 AM - 6 PM or night shift, 6 PM - 6 AM), overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings and climbing hand over hand
• Ability to work at elevated heights (up to 200 feet) and in confined spaces
• 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 1 hour per day
• Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) 30 minutes to 1 hour per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 6 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 6 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 3 hours per day
• Kneel/Crouch: Up to 6 hours per day
• Upper body twist: Up to 6 hours per day
• Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 30 minutes or less per day
• Candidate must be capable of safely 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.