Thermal Development Technician (Starship)

About the Role

The Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) team tackles space exploration’s toughest problems by developing the heat shields for our next-generation rockets and spacecraft. This hardware must survive the most extreme environments known to mankind and protect our vehicle through atmospheric entry. As a technician on the TPS team, you will thrive in a hands-on environment. You will spend time in the office, on the factory floor, and in the lab to execute on the mission to bring the capability of flying astronauts back to the United States.

This is a TEMPORARY position with SpaceX, for the length of time as stated, and is subject to change with minimal notice as business needs dictate. LENGTH OF POSITION: 3 months (permanent hire conversion based on performance and business need)

Key Responsibilities

• Preprocess and manufacture ceramic fibers, filaments, and powders required for the fabrication of next-tier products.
• Fabricate ceramic refractory billets, ceramic tiles, thermal gap fillers, coatings, and other components required for a robust thermal protection system.
• Perform basic fabrication, surface preparation for processing, bonding, and oven curing.
• Document processes precisely to be able to replicate each step taken in the material processing.
• Perform product inspection and rework as required.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings with an understanding for drawing symbols, flag notes, and general notes.
• Assist in the maintenance and repair of production machinery.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• Experience with various types of hand tools or hand-held power tools.
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments (calipers, height gauge, depth mic).
• Ability to operate personnel platforms (boom lifts, scissor lifts, etc.).
• Ability to perform work according to procedures and specifications.
• Experience setting up assemblies and parts in various types of processing and curing equipment such as ovens and high temperature kilns.
• Proficient/experienced to accurately measure and mix using scales for the process of tile coatings, sealants and RTV applications.
• Comfortable working with solvents, ceramic precursors, inorganic acids and bases.
• Experience with thermal protection system (TPS) or phenolic impregnated carbon ablator (PICA).
• Experience applying sealants, alodine, primer, adhesives, and special finishes.
• Good understanding of basic mathematical concepts.
• Fluent in the Office platform (Microsoft Word, and Excel).
• Experience operating and maintaining Kuka or other 6-axis robots.
• Experience in using Simantic or other HMIs.
• Basic understanding of stud arc welding.
• Basic understanding of robotic automation.
• Experience working with Programmable Logic Control (PLC) in an automation setting.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work one of the following shifts:
• Monday- Friday (6:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.)
• Monday -Friday (6:00 p.m. – 6:30 a.m.)
• Possess a valid Driver's License.
• Physical Requirements:
• Sit: Up to 1 hour per day
• Push/Pull: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) 30 minutes to 1 hour per day
• Overhead reach: Up to 6 hours per day
• Walk: Up to 6 hours per day
• Lift/Carry: Up to 25lbs. (unassisted) 30 minutes to 1 hour per day
• Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 6 hours per day
• Kneel/Crouch: Up to 6 hours per day
• Upper body twist: Up to 6 hours per day
• Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees Up to 1 hour per day
• Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), using an air purifying respirator, and performing the physical requirements of the job.
• Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities.

Location

• Starbase, TX

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.