Launch Engineer, Control & Flight Operations (Falcon Launch Ops)

Seeking an individual to join the Falcon launch control team in Vandenberg. You will serve as an on-console shift operator supporting launch and pad operations for all 3 Falcon launch complexes (SLC-4E, SLC-40, L-39A). You will develop and maintain the Ground Software automation that forms the backbone of these operations, continuously improving its reliability, efficiency, and robustness. You will train to qualify as a copilot and pilot controller for day-of-launch activities, applying multidisciplinary first-principles engineering to rapidly understand, communicate, and resolve issues across pad, vehicle, and automation systems in high-stakes, time-critical environments. 

• →Work as an on-console shift operator for all launch operations and preparations for launch operations, including refurbishment of the pad systems in preps for launch
• →Develop and maintain automation (via SpaceX Ground Software) that runs as the backbone of launch operations. This automation is constantly being updated to improve reliability, efficiency, and robustness of the operation
• →Work with technicians in the field via radio comms to accomplish operations and troubleshoot faulty hardware/data
• →Train and acquire requisite knowledge and skills to qualify as a copilot and pilot controller to perform the day-of-launch operations
• →Apply multidisciplinary, first principles engineering to understand, communicate, and resolve real-time issues for any subsystem on the pad, rocket, or automation, all in a time-critical environment such as in the hours before launch
• →Identify and proactively implement improvements to either automation or procedures that enable smoother operations, robust automation that reduces manual intervention, and more reliable processes that are less prone to human error
• →Support 24/7 operations by alternating between day shift and night shift

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, computer science, or other engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience working with fluid, pressurized, or electrical systems

• Experience working on rocket launch/test facilities and/or working on rocket flight hardware
• Experience working with SpaceX Ground Software architecture
• Experience interacting with control systems via a GUI/console setup
• Experience troubleshooting and reviewing data to diagnose unhealthy/nonconforming hardware
• Familiarity with controls and instrumentation hardware (valves, transducers, regulators, RTDs, etc)
• Strong communication skills and ability to communicate clearly in a time-critical environment

• Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Vandenberg
• Must be willing to work weekends and night shifts as launch manifest dictates
• Must be willing to travel to other launch sites in support of operational activities and launches; travel requirement is up to 15%
• Flight hardware typically is built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required
• Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings, and climbing hand over hand
• Comfort working in outdoor environments as required for system troubleshooting

• 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.