Sr. Launch Engineer, Mechanical Systems (Launch Pads) jobs in United States
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SpaceX · 1 week ago

Sr. Launch Engineer, Mechanical Systems (Launch Pads)

SpaceX is actively developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. The Sr. Launch Engineer, Mechanical Systems will join the Launch Pad Engineering Team to maximize efficiency and safety in launch pad operations, ensuring all ground support equipment is properly inspected and tested.

Advanced MaterialsAerospaceManufacturingNational SecuritySpace Travel
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Responsibilities

Serve as the responsible engineer for multiple launch pad mechanical systems and structures
Utilize FEM software (e.g. ANSYS, FEMAP) and rigorous hand calculations to facilitate design and issue disposition
Work with, and direct, a skilled technician workforce to carry out troubleshooting, maintenance activities, upgrades, and operational procedures
Contribute to the development and improvement of the functional automation relating to the systems 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
Develop and perform post launch data review for your respective system(s), both automated and manual
Serve as the lead engineer for the pads during refurbishment and launch operations. In this role, you will be responsible for real-time troubleshooting and resolution of issues
Represent SpaceX by presenting certification packages and engineering data to U.S. government agencies including NASA, US Air Force and others
Utilize a high-end CAD software design package (NX) to facilitate design and engineering drawing creation as well as issue disposition

Qualification

Mechanical EngineeringFinite Element AnalysisCAD SoftwareElectro-mechanical HardwareControl SystemsProgramming (Python)Instrumentation KnowledgeCommunicationTeamworkProblem Solving

Required

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, computer science, or other engineering discipline
5+ years of experience working with electro-mechanical hardware
Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base and Cape Canaveral
Ability to respond to emergencies to support priority projects, missions, and launches
Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed; flexibility is required
Ability to work in extreme outdoor environments when needed – heat, cold, wind, rain, etc
Ability to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
Working conditions may be in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required
Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings, and climbing hand over hand
Ability to lift heavy objects up to 25 lbs. unassisted
Ability to work on ladders, lifts, and at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with proper personal protective equipment (PPE)

Preferred

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)
Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar CAD software
Experience using ANSYS, FEMAP or similar finite element analysis software
Experience using python or other programming languages for data review and analysis
Experience using and troubleshooting control systems for remote operations and instrumentation feedback
Knowledge of engineering standards and best practices such as ASME B31.3, ASME BPV Code Section VIII, and AFSPCMAN 91-710
Experience reviewing data from anomalies and identifying root cause
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

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

Company

SpaceX is an aviation and aerospace company that designs, manufactures, and launches rockets and spacecraft.

Funding

Current Stage
Late Stage
Total Funding
$11.78B
Key Investors
Korea Investment PartnersIntesa SanpaoloAndreessen Horowitz
2025-12-12Secondary Market
2025-09-10Secondary Market
2025-08-13Secondary Market· $10M

Leadership Team

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Bret Johnsen
CFO
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Charles Kuehmann
VP Materials Engineering
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Company data provided by crunchbase