Development Test Engineer, Structures

About the role

In this position, you will become an integral member of the Starship Structural Test team, responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of both static and dynamic structural testing. Your role will involve managing the design, construction, and operation of test stands and hardware essential for vehicle development, ensuring that all testing processes meet the high standards set by SpaceX.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and implement system-level structural tests, which includes outlining configurations, schematics, and operational protocols to ensure effective testing procedures.
• Create and fabricate mechanical components, which can range from small brackets to large structural weldments, to support various testing requirements.
• Oversee the management of fluid systems, including high-pressure gases, cryogenic propellants, and hydraulic load controls, ensuring safety and efficiency during operations.
• Set up and configure data acquisition and control systems, incorporating wiring and instrumentation such as strain gauges and thermocouples for accurate data collection.
• Develop and maintain software scripts, test procedures, and configuration files to streamline testing processes and enhance data analysis.
• Lead a team of technicians throughout the assembly, activation, and execution phases of testing, ensuring that all team members are aligned and informed.
• Conduct thorough analysis of test data, utilizing both manual review techniques and automated scripts to derive meaningful insights.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure that testing aligns with overall project goals and timelines, adapting to any changes in scope or requirements.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical engineering, or a closely related field is essential for this role.
• A minimum of one year of experience in testing, mechanical design, or data acquisition and control systems is required, which can include internships or participation in college competition teams.
• Physical capability to perform tasks such as climbing, lifting items weighing up to 25 pounds, and pushing or pulling loads up to 50 pounds, as well as working in confined spaces or at heights of up to 500 feet.
• Willingness to work in high-temperature environments and adapt to variable schedules based on operational demands.
• Candidates must meet ITAR requirements, which include being a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Nice to have

• Experience in managing projects that operate under strict technical and scheduling constraints, especially when initial definitions are limited.
• Familiarity with working around hazardous systems, including high-pressure fluids or high-energy environments, is advantageous.
• Background in integrating electrical, mechanical, and software systems to create cohesive testing solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to quickly learn new skills and adapt to unfamiliar technical challenges, showcasing a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency with NI-based data acquisition systems for effective data collection and analysis.
• Experience with various types of instrumentation, including strain gauges, pressure transducers, deflection gauges, load cells, thermocouples, and RTDs, to ensure accurate measurements.
• Strong foundation in mechanical and fluid system design principles, which are crucial for developing effective testing setups.

Practical notes

• This role necessitates physical dexterity and the capability to work in environments that may include noise, fumes, and odors, requiring a strong focus on safety protocols.
• Candidates may be asked to undergo a pre-employment physical or provide a medical history review to verify their ability to perform essential job functions effectively.
• SpaceX is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. Any requests for reasonable accommodations or access to the Affirmative Action Plan can be directed to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

Join us at SpaceX and contribute to the future of space exploration by ensuring the structural integrity and performance of our groundbreaking vehicles!

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.