SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
MECHANICAL ENGINEER (STRUCTURES), STARBASE INFRASTRUCTURE
Our elite Starbase team is building the infrastructure required to make humanity multiplanetary at unprecedented speed and scale. This includes the design, fabrication, and construction of massive structural systems that support high-volume Starship production operations. The work is demanding, the environment is unforgiving, and the pace is relentless — but the mission is unmatched.
We are seeking a structures-focused Mechanical Engineer to own the design and delivery of critical production infrastructure. You will work on large-scale steel structures, factory support systems, ground support equipment (GSE), and tooling structures that must withstand heavy loads, dynamic manufacturing environments, and rapid operational cycles.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead the structural design of Starship production infrastructure of varying scales from smaller tooling fixtures and jigs to assembly line support structures and entire factory buildings/bays
- Perform structural analysis and design of steel, concrete, composite, and similar materials under static, dynamic, vibration, and handling loads using hand calculations and finite element analysis
- Develop and review structural drawings, connection details, fabrication packages, and erection/assembly sequences for complex structures and tooling
- Partner with manufacturing, operations, facilities, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fluids, and construction teams to integrate structural systems with production equipment, cranes, material handling, and operational requirements
- Support fabrication and construction activities, including review of shop drawings, weld procedures, and resolution of field issues during installation and integration
- Drive design decisions that balance performance, cost, schedule, and constructability for high-volume production environments
- Manage scopes through the full project lifecycle — from concept and preliminary design through detailed engineering, procurement, fabrication, and turnover
- Interface with external engineering firms, consultants, fabricators, and construction contractors to ensure designs meet SpaceX standards and are executed to specification
- Perform project control functions including scheduling, budgeting, and risk management
- Resolve conflicts in the field in real time and implement rapid design changes when required
- Own end-to-end delivery of projects with extreme ownership, ensuring on-time and on-budget performance
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: