Structural Welder, Ground Support Equipment Verified today

SpaceX · Starbase, TX · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-03

Structural Welder, Ground Support Equipment

Welders at Starbase, TX will build, maintain, and upgrade structural and fluid systems to support SpaceX rocket testing campaigns. You will work with fabricators to rapidly build and weld large assemblies that contribute to Starship 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 to plan welding operations under supervision of a lead welder
  • Utilize hand welding and flame-cutting equipment to weld metal components and parts to assemble structural forms
  • Visually inspect your own welds per AWS D1.1 and ASME B31.3 (normal and high-pressure service) standards with proper training
  • Obtain and maintain required internal licenses, operator permits, or certifications
  • 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: SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, or FCAW (experience from a college welding program qualifies)

Preferred Skills and Experience

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

Physical Requirements and Work Conditions

You must be able to work multiple shifts with minimal notice and travel up to 20% to different sites. Physical demands include standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting, working in cramped positions, and climbing up to 10 hours per day in various combinations. You will work in extreme outdoor environments (heat, cold, rain), with exposure to fumes, odors, and noise. Specific capacities include: lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs unassisted for 1-2 hours daily, pushing/pulling up to 75 lbs for 1-2 hours daily, overhead reaching up to 10 hours daily, and climbing ladders/stairs up to 6 hours daily. You must work safely at heights up to 500 ft, in confined spaces, and operating heavy equipment. You must be capable of working in temperatures over 80 degrees for 6+ hours per day. A pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical may be required to confirm these capabilities.

ITAR Requirements

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