Test Engineer

TEST ENGINEER, FLUID/MECHANICAL SYSTEMS (STARSHIP)

The Starship Structural Test team is responsible for testing the limits of Starship’s primary structure and propulsion/fluids systems. We are seeking an engineer who will have the opportunity to use their multi-disciplinary knowledge, experience, and creativity to design, analyze, and build the fluid and mechanical systems needed to support high-cadence Starship tests. These tests include long-duration static fires and structural testing of new versions of Starship! Join the team responsible for testing and launching the largest and most powerful rocket known to man!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Drive hardware development for systems within the Starship test site from basic architecture through design, analysis, scheduling, manufacturing, activation, and operational phases
• Own design, analysis, and manufacturing of gaseous and liquid fluid systems, mechanisms, actuation systems, fluid systems, and large structures
• Serve as the responsible engineer for one or multiple fluids, mechanical systems, and structures including compressible, incompressible, and/or cryogenic fluid systems
• Utilize finite element method (FEM) software (e.g. ANSYS, FEMAP) and rigorous hand calculations to facilitate design and issue disposition
• Work with vehicle engineers to understand requirements and develop systems from conception
• Perform data review and troubleshoot hardware issues associated with mechanical and fluid systems
• Work with, and direct, a skilled technician workforce to carry out troubleshooting, maintenance activities, upgrades, and operational procedures

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering field
• 1+ years of professional experience designing, building, or troubleshooting fluid or mechanical systems (internships and college competition team count)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns
• Experience using SOLIDWORKS, Siemens NX, or similar computer-aided design (CAD) software
• Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases & fluids, etc.)
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems and weldments
• Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Strong communication and presentation skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 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 work at elevated heights occasionally (scissor lifts and articulating boom lifts)
• Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain
• Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required
• Physical effort including sitting or standing for extended periods of time, lifting and carrying weight such as materials or equipment (up to 25 lbs. unassisted)
• Must be available for overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required