Mechanical Engineer, Tower/Launch and Test

About the role

This position places you at the core of the Starship program infrastructure development at the Starbase facility. You will manage the full lifecycle of launch mount and test stand hardware, driving designs toward rapid reusability and zero-refurbishment launch operations. The role demands ownership of complex mechanical systems that interface directly with the most demanding launch environments on Earth. You will be responsible for translating high-level mission requirements into robust, scalable hardware solutions. Collaboration is central, as you work alongside software, operations, and vehicle engineering teams to ensure seamless integration. Your analysis will focus on optimizing system performance under extreme thermal, structural, and dynamic loads. The position requires a hands-on approach to manufacturing, assembly, and validation of large-scale structures. Ultimately, you will ensure the reliability and safety of critical infrastructure that enables frequent and rapid space access.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect the end-to-end development of Starship tower and launch mount systems, defining requirements and execution pathways from concept to operational deployment.
• Engineer large-scale structural frameworks, high-pressure fluid systems, and high-force electromechanical actuation hardware to precise specifications.
• Perform in-depth thermal, structural, and dynamic analysis to enhance system performance, durability, and safety margins under extreme conditions.
• Liaise with software and operations teams to design fault-tolerant systems that maintain functionality and safety during violent launch and landing events.
• Synchronize efforts with vehicle engineering teams to guarantee seamless mechanical and functional integration between the launch pad infrastructure and the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles.
• Evaluate manufacturing processes and supply chain constraints to ensure designs are practical, cost-effective, and scalable for rapid production.
• Develop and execute verification and validation test plans to confirm that hardware meets all performance, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Drive failure mode analysis and corrective actions to resolve issues identified during testing, manufacturing, or field operations.
• Implement design improvements based on data from testing and operational use to increase reusability and reduce turnaround times.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians by providing technical guidance, design reviews, and best practices for mechanical engineering and system integration.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in an engineering field such as mechanical, aerospace, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrate a minimum of 1 year of experience using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and CAD software for design and simulation purposes.
• Possess a minimum of 1 year of experience designing, analyzing, and assembling mechanical or fluid systems, supported by relevant internship or project work.
• Be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to comply with ITAR regulations governing aerospace technology.
• Maintain the ability to pass a background check and meet all SpaceX employment eligibility requirements.
• Commit to working in a high-paced, deadline-driven environment where safety and precision are paramount.
• Adhere to strict quality control standards and follow detailed engineering documentation and procedures.
• Be prepared to adapt to rapidly changing priorities and technical challenges inherent in a cutting-edge development program.

Nice to have

• Hold a Master degree in engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Bring 3+ years of professional mechanical design and analysis experience in a demanding technical environment.
• Have 2+ years of lead-level project experience managing complex mechanical systems from conception to delivery.
• Show proficiency in manufacturing techniques, production processes, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Possess expertise in analyzing failure modes and assessing the structural integrity of weldments and complex hardware assemblies.

Practical notes

• This role requires physical work at heights up to 500 feet, in confined spaces, and in temperatures exceeding 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Candidates must be able to perform physical tasks including climbing stairs or ladders for up to 10 hours, walking for up to 10 hours, and lifting up to 25 pounds.
• The position requires availability for extended hours and weekend work as needed to meet project milestones and operational demands.
• A pre-employment physical or medical questionnaire may be required to verify the ability to perform these duties safely and effectively.