Test Technician (Fairings)

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.

TEST TECHNICIAN (FAIRINGS)

SpaceX is currently seeking talented individuals for a fairing test technician on the spacecraft fairings team. As a test technician you will be tasked to execute scheduled vehicle tests throughout the week and support multiple vehicle campaigns in parallel. The role will require good time management and regularly require interfacing with the integration and fluids teams in order to efficiently execute.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure all structural test stand related equipment/services are performed on time, safely, and in a professional manner
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment and instrumentation as needed
• Fabricate and repair structural hardware and test equipment
• Collaborate with engineers to develop and document activities
• Ensure all components and materials are clean and inspected
• Operate and maintain hardware, high pressure systems and pumps, and other ancillary equipment including pneumatic components
• Develop novel ways site-wide to streamline processes and increase the reliability of testing operations
• Perform a variety of related duties in support of testing
• Monitor and maintain a reasonable inventory of equipment, including tubes, fittings, hoses, and other supplies
• Maintain inventory of spare parts and equipment to repair or replace defective components
• Process work orders and maintenance tickets
• Prepare test articles and test stands and systems for test operations

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate 
• 3 years of professional experience with payload, spacecraft, automotive, aircraft or aerospace integration or testing

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate degree
• Airframe & Powerplant license
• Ability to troubleshoot electrical systems
• Experience with structural test equipment/services
• Strong computer skillset, including Microsoft Office navigation and file manipulation
• Experience with testing process and optimization of test processes
• Familiarity with AutoTest or similar software
• Experience with high performance systems and optimization of these systems
• Experience in ground support equipment in aerospace industry
• Experience in the space exploration industry, aviation, military or other high-reliability operating environments
• Knowledge of all types of borescope inspection equipment
• Knowledge of different fittings such as national pipe taper (NPT) and Army/Navy (A/N)
• Ability to utilize power tools and hand tools as well as heavy equipment
• Ability to read and understand technical manuals and reports
• Use of precision measuring instruments
• Communication skills for relaying data (verbally and in-writing) between other employees and customers
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg
• Physical effort including standing, lifting and carrying moderately heavy materials or equipment (15 to 35 lbs.)
• Must be able to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, and working on ladders/lifts at elevated heights
• Work occasionally performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Must be available to work extended hours, nights and weekends when required by mission milestones

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or 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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.