Test Specialist (Composites)
Job description
About the role
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. The Test Specialist (Composites) will own the execution and reliability of critical test processes within the Composites Test group. This role focuses on reducing production time and increasing safety through the design and operation of test equipment and procedures. The hire will partner closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure test readiness and operational excellence. Success in this role means making systems so robust that you actively work yourself out of the job. You will be responsible for turning complex concepts into practical, repeatable test solutions.
Key facts
What you'll do
Develop and operate SpaceX's most critical processes by designing efficient and effective test equipment and procedures.
Support the development of test stand concepts, equipment, and processes with a strong emphasis on practical execution and operability.
Contribute to the creation and maintenance of fabrication drawings, wiring schematics, and instrumentation lists for test hardware.
Assist with the design and analysis of structures, fluid systems, and mechanisms, ensuring real-world integration and test readiness.
Develop a deep understanding of fundamental test systems to enable effective troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of design, build, and reliability engineers to streamline designs for manufacturing and assembly.
Supervise the integration of test stands and equipment, including fabrication, mechanical assembly, and data/control systems implementation.
Operate test stands with exceptional attention to detail, insight, and strict adherence to established processes and safety protocols.
Develop, refine, and execute detailed manufacturing processes and technical instructions to ensure hardware meets the highest standards.
Refine existing hardware, procedures, and test processes based on lessons learned to improve system robustness and efficiency.
Collaborate with the team to evaluate and resolve non-conformances, driving actionable improvements that eliminate root causes.
Manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously while maintaining high standards of execution, organization, and safety.
Provide technical guidance and clear communication to cross-functional teams to keep projects moving forward.
Ensure all test activities are documented thoroughly to support traceability, audits, and future development efforts.
Serve as a hands-on expert who is comfortable working with complex systems from concept to execution.
Requirements
High school diploma or equivalency certificate is required for this role.
A Bachelor's Degree in an engineering or STEM discipline is required unless offset by 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
Must have 1+ years of experience creating and/or working with manufacturing design, build, integration, or test processes.
Some travel to launch sites or customer facilities will be required as needed, up to 40% annually.
The Specialist's travel schedule must remain flexible due to the frequent changes in mission schedules and operational demands.
Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg is mandatory for employment.
Must be willing to work extended hours as needed to meet mission timelines and operational commitments.
Candidates must be able to work effectively in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere.
Reliability, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety and process adherence are essential.
Experience with composite structures, test stands, and integration activities is highly valued based on role needs.
Hands-on experience with fluid systems, data acquisition, and field measurements is preferred for this position.
Documentation, configuration management, and writing test procedures are key expectations for the role.
Professional experience with CAD software and basic analysis programs is required.
Experience working with hazardous systems such as high pressure, high energy, or hazardous gases and fluids is necessary.
Experience with large assembly moves, including crane operations, is required for successful performance.
Clear and accurate communication with a wide range of technical and non-technical personnel is essential.
Nice to have
Five or more years of professional experience designing, building, integrating, and testing complex multi-disciplinary systems is preferred.
Hands-on experience with composite structure design or testing is a strong advantage for this role.
Demonstrated technical intuition, critical thinking, and comfort with ambiguity will support success in this position.
Experience with documentation and configuration management practices is preferred.
Ability to write test plans, procedures, and provide go/no-go judgment with clear rationale is highly valued.
Familiarity with CAD software and basic analysis programs is preferred for day-to-day responsibilities.
Professional experience testing and operating around hazardous systems such as high pressure and high energy systems is preferred.
Experience coordinating large assembly moves, including crane operations, is preferred based on project needs.
Strong verbal and written communication skills are preferred when interacting with diverse teams.
Thriving in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere is essential for long-term success.
Practical notes
Some travel to our launch sites or customer facilities (both internationally and domestic) will be required as needed, up to 40% annually.
The Specialist's travel schedule must be flexible as mission schedules fluctuate frequently.
Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg is required.
Must be willing to work extended hours as needed to meet mission timelines and operational commitments.