AstroTalentSpace Jobs

Launch Pad Technician - Multiple Shifts Verified today

SpaceX · Vandenberg, CA · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-03
Apply at SpaceX →

Launch Pad Technician - Multiple Shifts

SpaceX is hiring motivated technicians to maintain launch pad mechanical and fluid systems in preparation for launch operations. These systems include hydraulics, high-pressure nitrogen and helium, and cryogenic systems.

Responsibilities

  • Fabricate and install fluid system components from schematics or engineering drawings, including ball valves, check valves, pressure regulators, and pressure gauges
  • Troubleshoot operational issues during activation of fluid and mechanical systems
  • Work with technicians and engineers to ensure systems meet highest quality standards for successful launch vehicle operations
  • Operate heavy machinery including forklifts and aerial platforms
  • Perform hands-on work with large and small fragile assemblies
  • Perform maintenance tasks for vehicle integration, pad maintenance, site preventative maintenance, and general facilities, including corrosion control

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 2 or more years of experience using power tools in a professional capacity

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Military aviation experience as a propulsion or airframe technician
  • ASE certification or mechanical automotive experience
  • Experience working on a rocket launch pad and directly supporting launch operations
  • Associate's degree in aerospace technology or equivalent
  • Experience using heavy equipment such as overhead cranes, forklifts, and man lifts
  • Ability to follow detailed schematics and fabricate fluid panels
  • Extensive knowledge of hydraulic and cryogenic systems
  • Ability to bend and route tube in the field to high accuracy
  • Ability to explain differences between test setups: hydraulic vs. pneumatic vs. thermal and sensor types
  • Experience maintaining and troubleshooting complex fluid and mechanical systems
  • Ability to safely rig and move items under 20,000 lbs.
  • Ability to perform hydrotest and pneumostat on components independently
  • Ability to operate and build a flush cart, proof cart, and leak check cart
  • Experience in a clean room environment
  • Ability to obtain or currently hold Top Secret/SCI security clearance
  • Familiarity with calibrated measurement devices including load cells, multimeters, calipers, torque wrenches, depth gauges, and micrometers

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to pass Space Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base
  • Ability to work one of the following shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed: Day Shift 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Sunday-Wednesday or Wednesday-Saturday), or Night Shift 5:00 PM to 5:00 AM (Sunday-Wednesday or Wednesday-Saturday)
  • Ability to obtain respirator certification to apply ablative, paint, puck and martyte
  • Ability to perform job duties requiring standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, and working on ladders and lifts at elevated heights
  • Ability to lift 35 lbs. unassisted
  • Work in extreme outdoor environments including heat, cold, and rain
  • Work in environments with fumes, odors, and noise
  • Flexibility for varying work schedules based on site operational needs
  • Willingness to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary
  • General physical fitness required; flight hardware built in tight quarters requiring physical dexterity

Compensation

  • Level 1: $23.00 - $29.75 per hour
  • Level 2: $28.50 - $35.75 per hour
  • Level 3: $34.00 - $41.75 per hour
  • Actual level and base salary determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience
  • Long-term incentives in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards
  • Potential discretionary bonuses
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with discount
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • 3 weeks paid vacation
  • 10 or more paid holidays per year
  • Paid sick leave pursuant to company policy

ITAR Requirements

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