Hardware Test Engineer, Actuation Systems (Starship)

$110,000 - $130,000/Yr

SpaceX - Hawthorne, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

Hawthorne, CA

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

The Hardware Test Engineer for Actuation Systems at SpaceX plays a crucial role within the Components Test Organization, which is responsible for providing the testing expertise necessary for the development of flight hardware across various systems, including Falcon Launch Systems, Dragon Spacecraft Systems, Starship Launch and Spacecraft Systems, and Starlink Telecommunications Satellites. This position involves overseeing the testing process from conception through research and development (R&D) testing, design qualification testing, production and acceptance testing, and conducting failure investigations for hardware that may have failed at any point in its lifecycle. As a testing expert, the Hardware Test Engineer must possess a high level of proficiency in multiple engineering disciplines, including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, fluid dynamics, automation, and control systems. The role is predominantly hands-on, requiring expertise in the safe operation of highly energetic and hazardous testing environments to ensure the safety of all personnel involved. Additionally, the engineer will be responsible for developing automated test systems that are essential for the rapid and reliable production of flight hardware. This necessitates skills in systems engineering, computer-aided design (CAD), analysis, fabrication, project management, and logistics. The position demands collaboration with a cross-disciplinary team, including electrical, mechanical, and software engineers, to conceptualize and develop new test systems that validate flight hardware. The engineer will also be tasked with training personnel on the processes and operations of complex test systems, ensuring compliance with safety protocols throughout all testing activities.

Responsibilities

• Fill the role of instrumentation and test expert on the flight hardware development team
• Develop the detailed test plans and campaigns required to validate the flight hardware
• Assist with anomaly/failure investigations
• Develop requirements for new test systems needed to test and validate flight hardware
• Work with a cross-discipline team including electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to conceptualize and develop new test systems required to test and validate flight hardware
• Train personnel on the required processes and operations of complex test systems
• Ensure all testing is being conducted in compliance with all safety protocols, at all times

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience working on mechanical, fluid, or electrical systems (internships and project teams qualify)

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with mechanical, drivetrain, and/or electrical engineering concepts
• Experience in a test focused role
• Experience in a product ownership role
• Experience working with mechanical, drivetrain, and electrical measurement devices
• Experience working with complex mechanical and/or electrical systems and the ability to read drawings and system diagrams
• Mathematical, computer, problem solving and decision-making skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Short & long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Potential discretionary bonuses
• 3 weeks of paid vacation
• 10 or more paid holidays per year
• Long-term incentives in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards
• Various discounts and perks