Sr. Manager, Launch Fabrication

About the role

This position directs the Starbase Launch Fabrication department, overseeing the production of essential hardware and ground support equipment for Starship operations. You will manage a large workforce across multiple shifts and locations, including ST-15 and Sanchez, to ensure safety, quality, and schedule targets are met.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Manage all aspects of fabrication performance, including safety, quality, cost, and capacity to support launch and test milestones.
• Oversee multi-shift operations spanning pipe and structural welding, material preparation, corrosion control, and machine shops.
• Develop a leadership team of managers, superintendents, and supervisors while scaling production control systems.
• Define headcount strategies, including the balance of full-time employees and contractors, and manage facility planning for shop layouts and equipment.
• Coordinate with engineering, supply chain, and test operations to resolve blockers and maintain production flow.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to reduce build times and increase labor efficiency.
• Establish and enforce safety standards and quality protocols across all fabrication sites.

Requirements

• Bachelor degree in manufacturing, engineering, or a related field, or 6+ years of professional experience in machining, welding, or fabrication in lieu of a degree.
• 7+ years of experience in heavy fabrication, ground infrastructure hardware builds, welding, or machining.
• 3+ years of leadership experience managing multi-team organizations or supervisors.
• Ability to work extended hours, nights, and weekends as required by launch schedules.
• Ability to work in outdoor environments, at heights, and in areas with noise or fumes, and lift up to 25 lbs.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to comply with ITAR regulations.

Nice to have

• 5+ years of management experience leading multi-shift manufacturing or fabrication organizations.
• Experience scaling workforces for high-rate production in aerospace, defense, energy, or shipbuilding.
• Proficiency in pipe and structural welding, machine shop operations, and fluid/mechanical system fabrication.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, P&IDs, and engineering documentation.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and labor tracking tools.
• Familiarity with ASME, AISC, or ASTM codes and hazardous systems.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office and operational dashboarding.

Skills & tools

• Fabrication and welding management
• Production control and scheduling
• ERP/MRP software
• Lean manufacturing principles
• Technical drawing interpretation
• Microsoft Office Suite

Practical notes

• This role requires physical presence at Starbase and the ability to respond to urgent operational needs.
• SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation or access to the Affirmative Action Plan should contact EEOCompliance@spacex.com.