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Launch Pad Technician (Fabrication) Verified today

SpaceX · Starbase, TX · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-22
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Launch Pad Technician (Fabrication)

Launch pad technicians at Starbase, TX will work to build, maintain, and upgrade structural and fluid systems to support various SpaceX rocket testing campaigns. You will work with an elite team of fabricators to rapidly build and weld the large assemblies that contribute to Starship and Super Heavy vehicle testing at our South Texas facility.

Responsibilities

  • Complete welding assignments and procedures for construction and repair of site structural stands on time, safely, and professionally
  • Cut, trim, or scarf metal objects; fit and fabricate metal components to dimensions for building and assembling test site structural forms
  • Analyze engineering drawings and specifications under lead welder supervision to plan welding operations where procedural information is unavailable
  • Utilize hand welding and flame-cutting equipment to assemble structural forms
  • Visually inspect your own welds per American Welding Society (AWS) D1.1 and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B31.3 standards with proper training
  • Obtain and maintain internal licenses, operator permits, or certifications as required
  • Continuously improve operations, decrease turnaround times, and streamline work processes
  • Work in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities based on program needs

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 2+ years of experience with at least one of: shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), flux-cored arc welding (FCAW). Experience from a college welding program qualifies.

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • 5+ years of experience in FCAW, SMAW, GTAW, or GMAW
  • Combo welder experience with ability to fabricate and weld carbon structure, carbon pipe, and stainless pipe
  • Knowledge of standard welding trade tools, materials, motions, and practices
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions in welding
  • Experience with overhead cranes and forklifts
  • Use of precision measuring instruments
  • Ability to rapidly change roles while working in high-paced environments

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to work multiple shifts and change shifts with minimal notice
  • Ability to travel to different sites as needed, up to 20% travel
  • Physical capability to perform job duties requiring standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting, working in cramped positions, and climbing
  • Exposure to extreme outdoor environments: heat, cold, rain, fumes, odors, and noise
  • Stand: up to 10 hours per day
  • Sit: up to 10 hours per day
  • Push/Pull: up to 75 lbs unassisted, 1 to 2 hours per day
  • Overhead reach: up to 10 hours per day
  • Walk: up to 10 hours per day
  • Lift/Carry: up to 50 lbs unassisted, 1 to 2 hours per day
  • Climb (ladder/stairs): up to 6 hours per day
  • Kneel/Crouch: up to 10 hours per day
  • Upper body twist: up to 6 hours per day
  • Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees for 6 hours or greater per day
  • Capability to safely work at heights (up to 500 ft), in confined spaces, and operate heavy equipment. You may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities.

ITAR Requirement

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