Sr. Materials Engineer, Materials Laboratory

About the role

In this position, you will be responsible for ensuring the integrity of data and the quality of operations within the Materials Laboratory. Your role will focus on enhancing testing capabilities for essential hardware programs while managing intricate projects. Additionally, you will provide mentorship to staff on scientific principles and enforce stringent engineering controls across various testing domains.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Ensure the accuracy of data across multiple testing domains, including thermal analysis, characterization, chemistry, reliability, and mechanical testing.
• Create and implement calibration protocols, quality management systems, and engineering controls to guarantee traceable and reliable results.
• Conduct failure analyses to pinpoint root causes of issues and offer practical design recommendations based on findings.
• Innovate and validate new testing methodologies, such as fatigue crack growth testing, while also refining existing processes for efficiency.
• Provide training and mentorship to laboratory staff, emphasizing foundational principles and best practices in testing.
• Oversee several concurrent projects to align with the requirements of vehicle and engine development programs.
• Examine data discrepancies and confirm results for internal stakeholders to ensure reliability and accuracy.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate materials testing insights into broader engineering efforts.
• Document and communicate findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay updated on advancements in materials science and testing methodologies to continuously improve laboratory practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in a materials testing or characterization environment.
• Practical experience in at least one of the following areas: mechanical testing, thermal analysis, or materials characterization.
• Physical capability to lift items weighing up to 25 lbs and work effectively in a laboratory environment.
• Flexibility to work extended hours and weekends as necessary to meet project deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in data management and reporting.

Nice to have

• A Master's degree or PhD in Materials Science or a related field would be advantageous.
• Specialized knowledge in materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, adhesives, composites, and felts.
• Familiarity with programming languages such as Python or MATLAB for data analysis purposes.
• Understanding of ASTM and ISO testing standards and their application in a laboratory setting.
• Experience with advanced laboratory equipment, including SEM, EDS, XRD, FTIR, spark OES, pycnometer, Gleeble, and various tensile/fatigue testing machines.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in thermal analysis techniques, including TGA, LFA, DSC, DMA, and STA.
• Experienced in characterization methods such as SEM, EDS, XRD, optical microscopy, and FTIR.
• Knowledgeable in chemical analysis techniques, including ICP, spark OES, particle size distribution (PSD), and pycnometry.
• Skilled in mechanical testing across various conditions, including cryogenic, room temperature, elevated temperature tensile tests, compression tests, fatigue tests, Charpy impact tests, and fracture toughness assessments.
• Familiar with research and development practices, including torch testing, heat treatments, Gleeble testing, and process development methodologies.

Practical notes

• Salary range for this position is between $135,000 and $190,000, classified as Level 3.
• The compensation package may include stock options, long-term cash incentives, discretionary bonuses, and participation in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Benefits offered encompass medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) plan, disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and over ten paid holidays annually.
• ITAR Compliance: Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees to adhere to U.S. export regulations.

This role at SpaceX presents an for a dedicated materials engineer to contribute to projects in aerospace technology while fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in materials testing.

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.