Sr. Test Engineer (Dragon Structures)

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.SR. TEST ENGINEER (DRAGON STRUCTURES)Dragon currently delivers cargo and astronauts to the International Space Station. Future missions will ultimately seek to extend humanity’s reach far beyond the earth and moon. Bringing a fresh perspective to engineering problem solving, you will use your interpersonal skills to help accelerate hardware production, increase the quality of high performance spaceflight hardware, and meet Dragon's time sensitive project completion.RESPONSIBILITIES:Conduct structural, pressure, thermal, leak, and dynamic tests on flight and qualification hardware to evaluate if parts meet acceptance test criteriaDevelop, maintain, and execute test plans for products ranging from components to sub-assemblies to vehicle-level systemsOperate and understand complex test facility systems using schematics and wiring diagramsWork with data acquisition systems and control systems to continually improve in-test data recording and usability of the systemAnalyze and review data to ensure that hardware is operating as expected utilizing numerical data analysis tools to interpret test resultsDevelop novel ways site-wide to streamline processes and increase the efficiency and reliability of testing operationsProvide insight into the design of tooling and equipment from development to full volume production including poka-yoke, controls, and standardization of componentryDevelop robust plans to ensure that equipment and machine capacity is developed in line with volume production requirements and also provide detailed analysis for the appropriation of capital and ROIBASIC QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline5+ years of demonstrated hands-on experience in a manufacturing or test environmentAbility to author CAD, drawings, finite element models, technical manuals, reports and/or schematics (Unigraphics NX, FEMAP, ANSYS, etc.)PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:Master’s degree in engineering or related mathematics technical fieldKnowledge or experience in aerospace structural or mechanical systems assembly and testingDemonstrated knowledge in system automation via software and hardware selectionStrong first principles in physics measured through accurate free body diagramsStrong project management skills (project team sizes can range from 3 to 30 individualsStrong technical communication skills to serve as subject matter expert to peer test engineersExperience with data acquisition hardware and software in hands-on testing environments (hydraulic and pneumatic systems)5+ years of experience using test instrumentation and control components such as: pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays and solenoid valvesExperience with LabVIEW , Python and DiaDEM softwareExperience with control system logic (PID, PLC)Knowledge in production methods such as machining (milling, drilling, tapping), composite layup, molding, materials and heat treatmentADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:Position may require extended work hours and weekend workMust be able to climb ladders and work in tight spacesOccasional travel to other SpaceX sites, as needed; ~5%Schedules vary due to site operational needs – flexibility required.COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:             Pay range:       Test Engineer/Senior: $125,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year      Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.