SpaceX→
Chemical Engineer at SpaceX in Vandenberg Village, CA
Entry LevelOn-siteFull-timeVandenberg Village, CA$95k–$115k/yr
Skills
fluid systems engineeringthermodynamicsheat transfercontrol systemssolidworkspythoninstrumentationengineering standardscommunicationteamworkwork ethic
Job Description
Summary: SpaceX is a company focused on developing technologies for human life on Mars. They are seeking a Chemical Engineer to join the Launch Pad Engineering Team, responsible for designing and overseeing the installation of launch pad fluid systems, ensuring efficiency and safety during operations.
Responsibilities:
- Serve as the responsible engineer for one or multiple launch pad fluid systems including compressible, incompressible, and/or cryogenic fluid systems
- Utilize knowledge of heat transfer, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, controls, and instrumentation to troubleshoot issues present in various launch pad systems
- Work with, and direct, a skilled technician workforce to carry out design, build, troubleshooting, maintenance activities, upgrades, and operational procedures
- Contribute to the development and improvement of the functional automation relating to the fluid system(s) for which you are responsible
- Identify and implement upgrades to launch pad hardware, software, and procedures – drive continuous improvement in these areas by interfacing regularly with various teams across SpaceX
- Serve as the lead engineer for the pad during design, construction, and activation
- Represent SpaceX by presenting certification packages and engineering data to U.S. government agencies including NASA, US Space Force and others
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, chemical engineering, physics, or other engineering discipline
- 1+ years of professional experience working with fluid, mechanical, or low voltage electrical systems
- Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base
- Physical effort including standing, lifting and carrying moderately heavy materials or equipment (15 to 35 lbs.)
- Overall mental fitness with the ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment requiring prolonged mental concentration (under possible extended work hours)
- Ability to be flexible on shifts
- Occasional travel may be required
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns
- Experience using and troubleshooting control systems for remote operations and instrumentation feedback
- Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar CAD software
- Experience using python or other programming languages for data review and analysis
- Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases & fluids, etc.)
- Familiarity with instrumentation and control components (pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoid, pneumatic valves)
- Knowledge of engineering standards and best practices such as ASME B31.3, ASME BPV Code Section VIII, and AFSPCMAN 91-710
- Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure, fast paced environment
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Strong work ethic and drive to for constant improvement balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment
Required Skills: Fluid systems engineering, Thermodynamics, Heat transfer, Control systems
Important Skills: SOLIDWORKS, Python, Instrumentation, Engineering standards
Nice-to-Have Skills: communication, Teamwork, Work ethic
Benefits: Long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, Potential discretionary bonuses, Ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, 401(k) retirement plan, Short and long-term disability insurance, Life insurance, Paid parental leave, Various other discounts and perks, 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10 or more paid holidays per year, Paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law
Benefits
Long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards
Potential discretionary bonuses
Ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
401(k) retirement plan
Short and long-term disability insurance
Life insurance
Paid parental leave
Various other discounts and perks
3 weeks of paid vacation
10 or more paid holidays per year
Paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law