Dynamics Engineer (Starship) - job 1 of 2

As a Dynamics Engineer at SpaceX, you'll be responsible for resolving dynamics problems through analysis, testing, and the use of flight data. Your duties will include building finite element and lumped element models of launch vehicle systems, executing dynamic testing, and performing system-level analysis. You will also collaborate with other teams across vehicle engineering to drive hardware modifications enhance our operations.

To qualify for the Dynamics Engineer role at SpaceX, you need a bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline and at least one year of experience in structural or fluid dynamics. Preferred qualifications include hands-on experience with data analysis and hardware construction, as well as familiarity with finite element modeling and specific software tools such as NASTRAN and MATLAB.

Successful Dynamics Engineers at SpaceX possess a strong intuition for physics principles, analytical problem-solving skills, and proficiency in software tools like Python and MATLAB for data processing. Additionally, familiarity with structural analysis, vibration and shock testing, and fluid system modeling are highly advantageous for this role.

In your role as a Dynamics Engineer, you will work on a diverse range of projects focused on the Starship and Human Landing System (HLS) vehicles. This includes performing analyses that predict system responses, building dynamic models, and ensuring hardware is tested for both ground operations and flight conditions, all while collaborating with various engineering teams.

The team culture for Dynamics Engineers at SpaceX is highly collaborative and fast-paced. Engineers are encouraged to share their ideas and collaborate on problem-solving, contributing to an environment of innovation and excellence. A passion for space exploration and a drive to achieve extraordinary results are embraced in our diverse team.

In answering this question, emphasize specific projects or roles where you applied principles of structural dynamics. Discuss any tools you used, such as NASTRAN for finite element analysis, and how your contributions improved outcomes or solved complex engineering problems.

Detail your approach to data analysis, including any software tools you are proficient in like MATLAB or Python. Discuss how you process signals, analyze test results, and validate your findings against theoretical models or simulations.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide a structured response. Highlight the complexities of the problem, the analytical or experimental methods you employed, and the successful outcome that resulted from your efforts.

Explain your validation processes, including comparisons with experimental data and adjustments based on test results. Share examples where you identified discrepancies and modified models accordingly to enhance accuracy.

Discuss the importance of clear communication in interdisciplinary teams, especially when discussing complex dynamics concepts. Share examples of successful collaborations where your communication led to improved outcomes and project efficiency.

Provide a comprehensive but concise explanation of how structural-fluid coupling influences vehicle dynamics. Discuss practical examples, particularly in the context of launch vehicles, to showcase your understanding of this critical area.

Talk about any firsthand experience you have with conducting dynamic tests, including planning, execution, and interpretation of results. Detail the types of tests you've performed and how they impacted engineering projects.

Identify any programming languages you know, particularly those relevant to engineering such as Python or MATLAB. Describe projects where you developed scripts or software that aided in your analysis, emphasizing your proficiency and result-driven mindset.

Share your methods for staying informed, such as following industry publications, attending conferences, or participating in online courses. Mention how you apply new knowledge to enhance your work and contribute to project success.

Articulate your passion for space exploration and innovation, linking it to how your skills align with the mission and values of SpaceX. Discuss how you envision contributing to the Starship program and the larger vision of humanity's exploration of Mars.