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 TECHNICIAN

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Read and interpret planning documents, schematics, datasheets/manuals, drawings, blueprints, and engineering sketches
• Adjust, repair or replace faulty components of ground hardware, test, and integration equipment
• Fabricate and install parts and systems used in launch environments using hand tools, power tools, and test instruments
• Connect and verify pressure transducers, thermocouples, and other sensors
• Install connectors, connector pins, terminals, and lugs
• Complete necessary wiring of the electrical ground support equipment for ground systems
• Collaborate with launch engineers to troubleshoot failures and issues derived from launch activities
• Lay out, build, test, troubleshoot, repair and modify wiring of electronics racks and junction boxes
• 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 as required to maintain an operational launch site

BASIC QUALIFCATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 2 years of experience as a mechanic, technician, or construction worker

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 3 years of experience using power tools in a professional capacity
• 1 years of experience with electronic system assembly and construction
• 3 years of experience working with any of the following instrumentation: resistance temperature devices (RTDs), thermocouples, strain gages, load cells, displacement transducers, pressure transducers
• Experience working at a rocket launch facility and supporting launch campaigns
• Basic knowledge of Wheatstone bridge theory, ability to apply ohms law, and an understanding of DC electronics
• Associate degree in instrumentation, control technology, electrical systems, or another related field
• Experience working in corrosive environments and mitigation techniques
• Operational knowledge of an oscilloscope, multimeter, soldering wires, connectors
• System level troubleshooting skills and the ability to logically solve instrumentation system problems and determine corrective action
• Knowledge in signal conditioning concepts for various types of sensors to include the following: Thermocouple Types K,S, and E; TC bonding concepts: resistance weld on and adhesive bond on types; TC probes through thermowell sheaths; cold Junction compensation concepts
• Experience with the following devices: DC power supplies; DC-DC converters; UPS installations; heat shrink tubing, cable harnessing, lacing, and proper strain relief concepts
• Working knowledge of transducers, operational amplifiers, and the knowledge of measurement techniques for temperature, pressure, flow, displacement, vibration and the application strain gages are also highly desired. Identify required data, data acquisition plans and test parameters, setting up equipment to conform to these specifications
• Working knowledge of multiple bus architectures (PCI/PCIe, PXI/PXIe, GPIB, Serial, USB, etc.) and data communication technologies
• Demonstrated capabilities in the development of comprehensive project plans that include all tasks; stage/gate milestones, and reviews necessary to successfully develop and implement solutions
• Intermediate skill level using Windows operating systems
• Intermediate skill level using Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, OneNote)
• Knowledge in data acquisition concepts, hardware, and interfacing (SCXI and PXI based)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work schedule varies depending on site operational needs, and flexibility is required
• Must be willing to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary
• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs. unassisted
• Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position
• Must be able to work at elevated heights (up to 300 feet), including the use of ladders
• Must be able to work in confined spaces
• Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain, ice

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Instrumentation Technician/Level 1: $21.00/hour
Instrumentation Technician/Level 2: $26.00/hour
Instrumentation Technician/Level 3: $31.00/hour
 
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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.

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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.