Fluids Engineer, Launch Hardware Engineering

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.

FLUIDS ENGINEER, LAUNCH HARDWARE ENGINEERING

The Launch Hardware Engineering team is seeking a talented Fluids Engineer where you will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience, and creativity to rapidly design, build, and activate fluid systems supporting launch pads, landing facilities, test sites, production facilities and other locations as required.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design, build, and activate cryogenic, high pressure, oxygen-clean, hydraulic, or other fluid systems to support the launch and processing of Starship and Superheavy Booster 
• Utilize knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid flow, and control theory to design and analyze launch and production fluids systems
• Model piping assemblies using CAD software and perform piping stress analysis
• Read and develop detailed piping and instrumentation diagrams of complex fluids systems
• Select components, such as valves, pumps, piping, tanks, and filters, and provide detailed specifications for their purchase
• Coordinate with engineers from other disciplines (civil, structural, electrical, controls, etc) to establish a complete system design
• Manage the fabrication and installation of fluid systems and other construction projects occurring at the launch and test sites, hands-on in the field, alongside skilled technician teams
• Perform planning, analysis, and troubleshooting of system performance during real-time activation operations and post-test data reviews
• Work closely with operations teams to ensure system design is well-understood and easy to operate long term
• Provide innovative solutions to problems under minimal supervision or direction

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience with fluid systems or process engineering

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in mechanical, aerospace or chemical engineering
• 5+ years of hands-on experience working with cryogenic fluid systems in a professional setting or outside the classroom project team
• Demonstrated expertise in the design, build, and operation of pressurized fluid systems per ASME B31, ASME B&PV Code Section VIII, AFSPCMAN 91-710, or other applicable standards
• Experience using Siemens NX, SOLIDWORKS, or similar CAD software
• Experience using CAESAR II or similar pipe stress analysis programs
• Experience using python or other programming languages for data review and analysis
• Familiarity with Fluids fittings and specifications (AN/AS)
• Familiarity with instrumentation selection in severe service
• Experience operating and troubleshooting control systems required for remote operations
• Excellent written and oral communication, especially translating technical concepts for non-technical audiences
• Ability to work with and lead technicians during fabrication and commissioning of systems
• Familiarity with Root-Cause Analysis and Risk Mitigation process
• Adaptability to change in direction of projects

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral
• Must be willing to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary
• Schedules vary due to site operational needs - flexibility is required
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
• Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.  

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [email protected].