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.

CRYOGENIC FLUIDS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (STARSHIP)

The Starship team is looking for an individual to develop, analyze, build, commission and operate cryogenic fluids systems for the Starship development program.  As a member of the Launch Pad Engineering Team, you will have the opportunity to utilize your multi-disciplinary knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop solutions to Launch Pad Operations with the goal of maximizing efficiency without sacrificing safety or reliability.  This is the gateway to Mars!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as the responsible engineer for one or multiple launch pad cryogenic fluid systems
• Work on all types of cryogenic equipment, compressors, pumps, expanders, valves, distillation columns, etc. Identify potential problems and troubleshoot
• 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 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
• Develop and perform post launch data review for your respective system(s), both automated and manual
• Develop and integrate cryogenic separation and liquefaction systems with pad launch systems

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a science or engineering field
• 1+ years of professional experience working with cryogenic fluid systems

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Knowledge of cryogenic systems including liquid nitrogen, oxygen, natural gas and argon
• Knowledge of turbomachinery including pumps, compressors and turboexpanders
• Able to work well in an integrated collaborative team environment including daily interactions with technicians, engineers, and managers
• Able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure, fast paced environment
• Self-motivated and directed with keen attention to detail
• Experience with air separation plants, liquid natural gas plants and production analysis
• Experience with cryogenic processes including vapor compression and reverse Brayton cycles
• Experience with cryogenic heat exchangers including brazed aluminum, shell and tube and coil wound
• Experience with coldboxes, demethanizers, and other cryogenic distillation means
• Experience using and troubleshooting control systems for remote operations and instrumentation feedback
• Experience using CAESAR II or similar pipe stress analysis programs
• 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
• Experience operating and troubleshooting control systems required for remote and automated operations
• Strong conceptual, communication and organizational skills
• Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and human spaceflight
• Strong work ethic and drive to for constant improvement balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to pass Space Force background check for Cape Canaveral

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:    
Cryogenic Fluids Development Engineer/Level I: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year    
Cryogenic Fluids Development Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00/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 space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or 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.