IT Systems Administrator, Launch

About the role

SpaceX is seeking an IT Systems Administrator to manage the compute, networking, and application environments critical to our launch operations. This role focuses on maintaining high-availability infrastructure that supports our goal of making humanity multiplanetary. The successful candidate will own the end-to-end lifecycle of infrastructure components, ensuring that mission-critical systems remain resilient and performant under demanding conditions. You will be responsible for implementing robust monitoring and alerting mechanisms to proactively identify and mitigate potential failures before they impact operations. This position requires a disciplined approach to change management, where every modification is executed with precision and thorough documentation. You will collaborate closely with engineering and technical teams to align IT infrastructure with the aggressive timelines of launch campaigns. The role demands a strong commitment to security and compliance, safeguarding sensitive data and systems against evolving threats. Ultimately, you will play a key role in enabling the reliability and efficiency required for SpaceX's ambitious exploration objectives.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Install and maintain IT hardware, including servers, networking equipment, and desktop systems across national mission-critical sites.
• Execute system patches and upgrades during off-hours or weekends to avoid disrupting launch schedules.
• Monitor service health and provide rapid response to technical incidents.
• Partner with internal teams to identify and resolve deployment risks.
• Create and update technical documentation, design drawings, and operational procedures.
• Apply automation tools to improve systems engineering workflows.
• Ensure all configurations meet cybersecurity and industry standards such as NIST, ISO, and ITAR.
• Perform routine backups and disaster recovery testing to ensure data integrity and availability.
• Troubleshoot complex network connectivity issues to minimize downtime and maintain seamless operations.
• Conduct regular system audits to verify compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.
• Optimize infrastructure performance by analyzing resource utilization and identifying bottlenecks.
• Support the deployment of new applications and services in coordination with development and engineering teams.
• Manage user accounts and access controls to enforce the principle of least privilege across systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior IT staff in best practices and operational procedures.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3+ years of professional experience in IT systems administration.
• Practical experience managing Windows or Linux server environments.
• Experience deploying and administering enterprise networks.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to meet ITAR requirements.
• Ability to pass an Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral.
• Valid driver license.
• Ability to lift 30lbs unassisted and work at heights.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and make sound technical decisions with minimal supervision.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to adhere to strict safety protocols and operational procedures in a high-stakes environment.
• Flexibility to adapt to rapidly changing priorities and evolving technical requirements.
• Commitment to maintaining a clean and organized work environment in accordance with facility standards.
• Reliability and punctuality in meeting shift schedules and on-call responsibilities.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in scripting with Python, Bash, or PowerShell.
• Experience with automation frameworks like Ansible, Puppet, or Terraform.
• Knowledge of network protocols including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, SNMP, NTP, and PTP.
• Experience with Active Directory, SCCM, and multi-platform authentication.
• Familiarity with virtualization, firewalls, and industrial telemetry networks.
• Understanding of DevOps concepts, infrastructure as code, and Layer 1 configuration.

Practical notes

This position requires working extended hours, weekends, and night shifts based on launch schedules. You must participate in an after-hours on-call rotation. Travel up to 20% is required, including potential time at sea for marine systems support. Compensation includes stock options, company stock, or long-term cash awards, plus 401(k), medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, paid parental leave, 3 weeks of vacation, and 10+ holidays.