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.
MECHANICAL ENGINEER (STRUCTURES), STARBASE INFRASTRUCTURE
Our elite Starbase team is building the infrastructure required to make humanity multiplanetary at unprecedented speed and scale. This includes the design, fabrication, and construction of massive structural systems that support high-volume Starship production operations. The work is demanding, the environment is unforgiving, and the pace is relentless — but the mission is unmatched.
We are seeking a structures-focused Mechanical Engineer to own the design and delivery of critical production infrastructure. You will work on large-scale steel structures, factory support systems, ground support equipment (GSE), and tooling structures that must withstand heavy loads, dynamic manufacturing environments, and rapid operational cycles.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead the structural design of Starship production infrastructure of varying scales from smaller tooling fixtures and jigs to assembly line support structures and entire factory buildings/bays
- Perform structural analysis and design of steel, concrete, composite, and similar materials under static, dynamic, vibration, and handling loads using hand calculations and finite element analysis
- Develop and review structural drawings, connection details, fabrication packages, and erection/assembly sequences for complex structures and tooling
- Partner with manufacturing, operations, facilities, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fluids, and construction teams to integrate structural systems with production equipment, cranes, material handling, and operational requirements
- Support fabrication and construction activities, including review of shop drawings, weld procedures, and resolution of field issues during installation and integration
- Drive design decisions that balance performance, cost, schedule, and constructability for high-volume production environments
- Manage scopes through the full project lifecycle — from concept and preliminary design through detailed engineering, procurement, fabrication, and turnover
- Interface with external engineering firms, consultants, fabricators, and construction contractors to ensure designs meet SpaceX standards and are executed to specification
- Perform project control functions including scheduling, budgeting, and risk management
- Resolve conflicts in the field in real time and implement rapid design changes when required
- Own end-to-end delivery of projects with extreme ownership, ensuring on-time and on-budget performance
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, structural engineering, or aerospace engineering
- 1+ years of professional experience in structural design or analysis of steel structures, areo-structures, heavy industrial equipment, or large-scale mechanical systems
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects, think critically, and drive successful outcomes
- Strong background in structural design of large systems/assemblies using carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or other commonly used structural materials
- Experience designing or analyzing structures for various load cases including dynamic loads, vibration, heavy lifting, or material handling environments
- Proficiency with structural analysis/FEM software (e.g., ANSYS, ABAQUS, FEMAP, NASTRAN, ETABS or equivalent)
- Proficiency with 3D modeling tools Siemens NX and/or Revit
- Experience with structural detailing, fabrication drawings, and application of GD&T for structures and tooling
- Hands-on experience with fabrication, welding, heavy lift planning, or steel erection
- Demonstrated ability to own projects from concept through build and commissioning
- Experience working on industrial facilities, production lines, GSE, or manufacturing tooling structures
- Familiarity with concrete, foundations, anchorage, and how they integrate with mechanical and production systems/structures
- Ability to read and create detailed structural drawings, connection details, and fabrication packages
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work across engineering, manufacturing, and construction teams
- Extreme ownership mentality and comfort operating in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed to support site operations and construction activities
- Willingness to work in outdoor environments at a remote coastal location
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 [email protected].