CNC Machinist (Starship Components)

About the role

SpaceX is on the lookout for skilled CNC machinists to join our team in the production of flight hardware for the Starship initiative. In this role, you will be responsible for operating CNC machinery to achieve high-volume production goals while adhering to rigorous quality standards. Your expertise will contribute directly to the success of our ambitious space exploration objectives.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Set up CNC machines with precision to manufacture components that are ready for flight.
• Oversee the inventory of cutting tools, ensuring they are properly loaded and measured before initiating production runs.
• Perform deburring and finishing operations, including laser marking and cleaning tasks to ensure high-quality outputs.
• Use calibrated measurement tools to verify the dimensions of hardware, ensuring compliance with technical specifications.
• Carry out routine preventative maintenance on CNC equipment and uphold cleanliness in the shop by following 5S principles.
• Record production data and test results in accordance with established work instructions to maintain accurate documentation.
• Organize and prioritize daily tasks effectively to enhance machine uptime and overall shop productivity.
• Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot and resolve any machining issues that may arise during production.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance machining processes and reduce waste.
• Train and mentor junior machinists, sharing knowledge and best practices to foster a skilled workforce.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain a safe working environment for all personnel.
• Engage in cross-functional teams to support various projects and contribute to the overall mission of SpaceX.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent educational background is required.
• At least 8 years of hands-on experience in CNC machining is necessary.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds without assistance.
• Physical capability to stand, kneel, bend, twist, and perform repetitive motions is essential.
• Comfortable working in environments with elevated noise levels.
• Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees to comply with ITAR regulations.

Nice to have

• Over 10 years of experience operating CNC machinery is preferred.
• Strong skills in shop mathematics, blueprint interpretation, and tooling technology are advantageous.
• A solid mechanical aptitude along with effective written and verbal communication skills is a plus.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in operating CNC machines and related equipment.
• Familiarity with calibrated measurement tools for quality assurance.
• Competence in shop mathematics for calculations and measurements.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and technical drawings accurately.
• Knowledge of 5S methodology for maintaining an organized and efficient workspace.

Practical notes

• Compensation for this position is competitive, with Level 4 positions offering $36.00 to $43.00 per hour, and Level 5 positions ranging from $41.00 to $51.00 per hour.
• Shift options include a 1st shift starting at 5:00 AM or a 2nd shift beginning at 2:30 PM.
• Total rewards for employees include company stock, stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and over ten paid holidays each year.
• SpaceX is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations for the application process are available by contacting EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

Join us at SpaceX and be a part of a team that is pushing the boundaries of space exploration and technology. Your skills and dedication will play a crucial role in our mission to make life multiplanetary.

About the company

Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.