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.
LEAD MATERIALS ENGINEER, METALLURGY
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provide expertise and guidance to the engineering staff as it
relates to materials selection for metals, polymers, composites,
joining/forming techniques, as well as materials testing and
analysis
- Interface with a variety of engineering groups to identify proper
material selection for engineering structures, components, and
subassemblies
- Investigate opportunities for improving existing processes,
equipment, and technology for attaining organizational cost
reduction and continuous improvements
- Conduct and direct hands-on laboratory testing and failure analysis
of vehicle hardware and raw stock materials
- Perform rigorous process and product failure analysis, and do
research and development work on the hardware
- Perform prototype process trials, materials analysis, and properties
characterization
- Develop technologically advanced materials or processes that enhance
product performance
- Work with external vendors to establish process control of existing
designs and identify new opportunities for product development and
improvement
- Be proactive and forward thinking with respect to team growth and
department/company strategy
- Lead and mentor a team of engineers focused on rapid development and
execution of design improvements (includes recruitment, performance
evaluations, and growth management)
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in material science, materials engineering,
metallurgy, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or physics
- 4+ years of professional experience with aluminum, high strength
steels, titanium or nickel based super alloys, polymers, or
composites
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- PhD in material science or materials engineering
- Strong desire to mentor and grow employees
- Expert level first principle engineering knowledge of metals and
materials
- Knowledge of physical and mechanical properties as well as
evaluation methods (tensile strength, hardness, fatigue, fracture
toughness, creep, stress rupture, SEM, non-destructive
inspection, spectroscopy)
- Detailed knowledge of one or more of the following production
processes: forging, casting, forming, coating, plating, heat
treating, fusion welding, friction stir welding, EB welding,
additive manufacturing, and composite manufacturing
- Hands-on experience in a high-production manufacturing environment
- Experience with technical review of materials processing and a sound
understanding of the interaction between process variables and the
resulting material performance
- Demonstrated track record of success in a rapidly growing,
fast-paced, and highly competitive environment
- Personality and drive to execute in a scrappy entrepreneurial
environment that operates under tight timelines and aggressive
schedules
- Effective written and interpersonal communication skills
- Capable of interacting with and conveying concepts within all levels
of our organization
- Strong academic foundation coupled with hands on experience
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
- To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations,
including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you
must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S.,
protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible
to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department
of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is
governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will
not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender,
national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age,
sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical
disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan
for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring
reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should
notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.