Parachute Rigger & Quality Specialist

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.

PARACHUTE RIGGER & QUALITY SPECIALIST (STARFALL)

SpaceX is seeking exceptional employees to enable the success of its Starfall and Dragon parachute systems. The Parachute Rigger & Quality Specialist will pack parachutes in accordance with documented procedures across several products. Additionally, this role will assist in reviewing the quality and conformance of numerous other soft goods components that the Bloomfield, Connecticut site produces. This role will have a close feedback loop with engineering, production, and the greater SpaceX team in our pursuit of making access to and from space as safe and reliable as possible.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Fold, rig, and pack parachutes for both human and cargo spaceflight in accordance with SpaceX policies and procedures
• Support development of new packing/rigging procedures for new projects
• Support continuous improvement of work instructions and procedures
• Perform build reviews and drive improvements to product quality and reliability
• Perform in-process inspections, final inspections, and post-flight inspections of parachutes and other soft goods, identifying and documenting non-conformances according to SpaceX policies and procedures
• Inspection methods include visual inspection and use of scales and micrometers
• Validate incoming parts and materials to approved drawings and specification standards. Create record of the quality review
• Maintain and promote a quality culture within the organization
• Manage calibrated equipment and testing equipment, including coordinating on-time re-calibration

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2+ years of inspection or technician experience in an aerospace, military, or manufacturing environment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Strong communication skills (written and oral)
• Senior Riggers License - FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) or military equivalent
• Experience with parachute systems (large or cargo canopies preferred, and/or pressure packing canopies)
• Experience with textiles (cord, webbing, tape, broadcloth, and thread) and the ability to interpret technical drawings
• Experience in a quality department or in quality training
• Experience with high-consequence, meticulous procedural work (e.g., FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate or similar)