Apprentice Instrumentation Fitter

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.

APPRENTICE INSTRUMENTATION FITTER – 2ND SHIFT

Instrumentation fitters on the fabrication team at SpaceX’s Rocket Development Facility are responsible for building the critical infrastructure used to test the engines, stages, and components for the Falcon and Starship programs. In this role, you can expect to work directly with world-class technicians, fabricators, and engineers on some of the most exciting and critical infrastructure projects in the space industry. If you are someone who thrives working on fast-paced and challenging projects, then this team is for you.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide ground support equipment (GSE) technician support, which involves building, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment such as pumps, tanks, valves, and plumbing related to the liquid oxygen (LOX), fuel pad, and other aspects of the site facility
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment and instrumentation as needed
• Operate and maintain hardware, high-pressure systems, pumps, and other ancillary equipment, including pneumatic components
• Fabricate and repair GSE hardware and equipment
• Collaborate with design engineers to develop and document GSE activities
• Ensure all materials are clean and inspected according to Clean for Oxygen Service Standards
• Build and maintain structural and engine test equipment
• Obtain and maintain licenses, operator permits, or certifications as required
• Follow all necessary regulations and appropriate SpaceX procedures, including quality policies and safety policies
• Develop novel ways, site-wide, to streamline processes and increase the reliability of testing operations
• Perform a variety of related duties in support of engine testing and structural test stand programs

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree or certification from a 2-year technical school
• Experience with hand tools and blueprint reading (experience gained through a 2-year college or technical program counts)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience in the space exploration industry, military, or other high-reliability operating environments
• Experience with ground support equipment in the aerospace industry
• Mechanical aptitude and experience (work with machines and general tooling)
• Formalized mechanical training and skill in hand and power tool usage
• Demonstrated experience where quick thinking and problem-solving play a critical role
• Knowledge of high-vacuum systems
• Knowledge of all types of borescope inspection equipment
• Knowledge of different fittings such as National Pipe Taper (NPT) and A/N
• Ability to utilize power tools and hand tools, as well as heavy equipment
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments
• Ability to read and understand mechanical and electrical schematics
• Knowledge of hazardous systems: cryogenic, flammable, hypergolic, and pyrophoric
• Knowledge of high-pressure system design and handling
• Experience using test instrumentation and control components

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Standard hours for this position are 1:30 PM – 12:30 AM
• Schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required
• Valid driver’s license
• Flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters, and physical dexterity is necessary to perform job functions
• The ability to lift heavy objects is required in this position (up to 25 lbs unassisted)
• Must be able to work at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Must be able to work in extreme outdoor environments: heat, cold, rain, etc.
• Must be able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, noise, and hazardous environments
• Must be able to work in elevated PPE, including supplied air respirators and chemical-resistant self-encapsulating suits
• Must be available to work overtime, weekends, and rotating shifts as needed based on site operational needs; flexibility required
• Must be able and available to travel (up to 20% of the time), including military and government installations

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. 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 Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.