Launch Engineer, Dragon Verified today

Launch Engineer, Dragon

SpaceX is seeking exceptional candidates for a Launch Engineer position on the Dragon Integration team. You will apply technical expertise, hands-on experience, and creative problem-solving to advance human spaceflight operations and vehicle reusability. You will play a critical part in the maintenance, testing, and readiness of Dragon Spacecraft designed to safely transport crew and cargo to and from Low Earth Orbit.

What you will do

• Develop, execute, and continuously improve procedures for the integration, testing, and operation of Crew and Cargo Dragon flight hardware and associated ground support equipment (GSE)
• Lead day-to-day execution of mission-specific launch site and vehicle processing activities, ensuring safe and efficient readiness for flight
• Evaluate flight vehicle requirements and define work scope for capsule maintenance and processing campaigns
• Manage work orders, drive non-conformances to resolution, and implement system improvements while maintaining accurate integrated planning documents across various vehicle configurations
• Investigate and resolve vehicle, GSE, and test equipment failures by dispositioning issues, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective and preventive actions
• Design and develop hardware and software tools that enable and optimize vehicle processing and test operations
• Collaborate daily with cross-functional engineering teams and skilled technicians
• Clearly communicate vehicle status and priorities to a broad audience during readiness reviews and daily updates

What you will need

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical engineering, or a related engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience in hardware development, vehicle integration or refurbishment, manufacturing, pressurized systems, structural assembly, test operations, or related operations (internship and project experience accepted)

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• 3+ years of industry experience in automotive, aviation, or spacecraft manufacturing working with large integrated assemblies
• Hands-on experience with high-pressure fluid systems, avionics, structures, and mechanisms
• Experience writing test plans and procedures and executing integrated system tests
• Proficiency reading fluid and electrical schematics to analyze and improve test coverage, with the ability to verify designs using simplified hand calculations (FEA or CFD a plus)
• Mechanical component and tooling design experience using 3D CAD (intermediate proficiency; NX preferred), including producing fabrication drawings and applying DFMA principles
• Ability to apply first-principles reasoning to engineering problems, question requirements, and delete parts or process steps
• Hands-on fabrication skills including machining (mill/lathe), welding, and 3D printing
• Experience using AI coding tools to accelerate scripting, automation, and software development
• Acute attention to detail with the ability to identify cross-system interactions and prevent issues, paired with strong problem-solving and decision-making under tight deadlines and high-stress conditions
• Collaborative team player who communicates clearly across diverse groups, works effectively both independently and in teams, and balances cost, schedule, and technical performance
• Positive, adaptable attitude with the ability to rapidly shift priorities, maintain high urgency in a fast-paced environment, and support efficient operations as needed

Additional Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Space Force background check for work at Cape Canaveral, Florida
• Ability to perform physical tasks including standing for extended periods and lifting/carrying materials or equipment weighing 15-35 lbs
• Willingness to be trained to work around hypergolic propellants (MMH and NTO) and to handle hazardous materials
• Ability to maintain high concentration and perform effectively in a high-stress environment that may involve prolonged focus and extended work hours
• Willingness to work outdoors as required
• Travel may be required to provide support to critical Starship or AI related projects within the company
• Flexibility to support typical 60-hour work weeks and varying schedules based on operational needs

ITAR Requirements: To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.