Structures Design Engineer

About the role

In this role, you will be responsible for the design and development of hardware for the Starship Structural Test team. Your focus will be on creating test fixtures, large structural weldments, mechanical interfaces, and fluid systems that are essential for both static and dynamic structural testing. The position requires quick decision-making, effective problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to overseeing projects from inception to completion.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and design metallic structures along with ground cryogenic, gas, and hydraulic systems while adhering to tight timelines.
• Analyze engineering specifications and data to create effective mechanical systems.
• Modify designs and drawings through engineering change orders to keep pace with rapid design iterations.
• Produce comprehensive component and assembly drawings, utilizing geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) along with tolerance stack-ups.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure designs meet operational requirements and standards.
• Participate in design reviews and provide constructive feedback to improve project outcomes.
• Conduct tests and simulations to validate designs and ensure they meet performance criteria.
• Document design processes and maintain accurate records of all engineering changes and project developments.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in an engineering field is required.
• At least one year of experience in mechanical design and drafting, which may include internships or personal projects.
• Proficiency in 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software such as NX or SolidWorks is essential.
• Familiarity with engineering principles and practices related to structural design and testing.
• Ability to interpret and apply engineering specifications and standards effectively.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Nice to have

• A solid understanding of GD&T principles and the ability to apply tolerance stack-ups in design work.
• Hands-on experience designing hardware through involvement in school clubs or project teams with strict deadlines.
• Knowledge of sheet metal design, welded structures, and fluid systems is advantageous.
• Experience managing large assembly models and creating detailed drawings.
• Excellent communication skills to facilitate daily interactions with technicians, engineers, and project leaders.
• Creative problem-solving abilities that can help unify teams toward a common design goal.
• Self-driven with strong organizational skills, capable of multitasking and maintaining thorough documentation.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in 3D CAD software, specifically NX and SolidWorks.
• Strong knowledge of GD&T and tolerance stack-ups.
• Familiarity with mechanical design principles and structural analysis techniques.

Practical notes

• Due to U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or eligible to obtain the necessary authorizations.
• The position requires physical dexterity and the ability to work in constrained spaces, with potential exposure to fumes, odors, and noise.
• The work schedule is flexible, depending on operational demands.
• Physical requirements include the ability to stand for up to 6 hours, sit for up to 6 hours, push or pull up to 50 lbs unassisted for 15 minutes, reach overhead for up to 3 hours, walk for up to 10 hours, lift or carry up to 25 lbs unassisted for 15 minutes, climb ladders or stairs for up to 10 hours, kneel or crouch for up to 3 hours, and twist the upper body for up to 3 hours daily.
• Candidates must be able to work in temperatures exceeding 80 degrees for 6 or more hours each day.
• The role requires the ability to safely work at heights of up to 500 feet, in confined spaces, operate heavy machinery, and fulfill all listed physical requirements. A pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical examination may be necessary.

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.