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.
INSTRUMENTATION FITTER
We are currently looking for an instrumentation fitter to install and maintain the launch pad mechanical and fluid systems in preparation for launch operations. These systems include hydraulics, high-pressure nitrogen/helium, and cryogenic systems.
In addition to the required experience below, our ideal candidate is someone who shows personal initiative, maintains their composure, and fosters a positive environment. In this role, it is important to be responsible, hardworking, and conscientious about the quality of work performed. The instrumentation fitter will need to take the lead in making suggestions and not get discouraged along the way. Additionally, they will need to be able to produce high-quality work promptly while continually looking forward to needed process improvements, streamlining of work, and cost savings.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Fabricate and install fluid system components from a schematic or engineering drawing, including, but not limited to, ball valves, check valves, pressure regulators, and pressure gauges
- Direct teams of 5-15 contractors supporting installation and maintenance projects at the launch pad
- Troubleshoot operational issues found during the activation of fluid and mechanical systems
- Work with a team of technicians and engineers to ensure every system is built with the highest level of quality to support the 100% successful launch of a multimillion-dollar launch vehicle
- Operate heavy machinery, including forklifts and aerial platforms
- Perform hands-on operations with both large and small fragile assemblies
- Perform maintenance tasks as required in a variety of roles for vehicle integration, pad maintenance, site preventative maintenance, general facilities, and any other general maintenance work to maintain an operational launch site (including corrosion control)
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 5+ years of experience performing maintenance or installation work on mechanical or hydraulic systems
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- NCCER Instrumentation certification
- Experience working on a rocket launch pad and directly supporting launch operations
- Experience in military aviation as a propulsion or airframe technician
- Demonstrated leadership experience in an industrial environment
- Experience using heavy equipment (overhead cranes, forklifts, and man lifts)
- Experience following detailed schematics and fabricating fluid panels from said schematics
- Knowledge of hydraulic/cryogenic systems and operations
- Experience explaining the differences between test setups: hydraulic vs. pneumatic vs. thermal and between sensors (load cells, differential pressure transducers, thermocouples, etc.)
- Experience maintaining and troubleshooting complex fluid and mechanical systems, including analyzing flow paths and proper relief systems
- Experience routing tubes in the field to a high level of accuracy
- Experience in safely rigging and moving items under 20,000 lbs.
- Experience operating and building a flush cart, proof cart, and leak check cart
- Experience working in a clean room environment
- Familiarity with calibrated measurement devices, including load cells, multimeters, calipers, torque wrenches, depth gauges, and micrometers
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
- Ability to obtain respirator certification to apply ablative, paint, puck, and martyte
- Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting the upper body, and working on ladders/lifts at elevated heights
- Willing to work in an environment with extreme outdoor conditions such as heat, cold, and rain
- Willing to work in an environment with exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
- Willing to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary – up to 10%
- Ability to have physical dexterity, as flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters
- Must be available for shift rotations, overtime, and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required
- Stand: Up to 10 hours per day
- Sit: Up to 3 hours per day
- Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
- Overhead reach: Up to 10 hours per day
- Walk: Up to 10 hours per day
- Lift/Carry: Up to ≤ 50 lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
- Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 6 hours per day
- Kneel/Crouch: Up to 10 hours per day
- Upper body twist: Up to 6 hours per day
- Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 6 hours or greater per day
- Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, operating heavy equipment and machinery, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the . Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review.
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 reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.