Environmental Test Technician

As an Environmental Test Technician at SpaceX, your primary responsibilities will include assembling, instrumenting, and testing satellite hardware throughout its development phases. You will monitor and evaluate the performance of test articles, activate space simulation test equipment, and troubleshoot custom test racks. Additionally, you will collaborate with engineers on building and activating test systems, ensuring quality and reliability of the technology that powers our Starlink satellites.

To apply for the Environmental Test Technician position at SpaceX, you should have at least a high school degree or equivalent and a minimum of three years of experience with mechanical, structural, or electrical systems. Additional experience in electronic testing and inspection, along with a strong mechanical aptitude, is preferred. An A&P license or prior work in a research and development environment can enhance your candidacy for this exciting role.

In the role of Environmental Test Technician at SpaceX, you will work with various testing equipment, such as Thermal Vacuum, HASS/HALT systems, vibration test rigs, and shock equipment. Your familiarity with these tools is crucial as you will activate, maintain, and troubleshoot them during the qualification testing of satellite components. The ability to read electrical schematics and operate measuring devices like oscilloscopes and digital multimeters will also be beneficial.

SpaceX offers a competitive compensation package for the Environmental Test Technician role. Pay ranges from $22.00 to $40.00 per hour, depending on your level of experience and expertise. Besides base pay, employees may also benefit from stock options, bonuses, and comprehensive medical and retirement plans. This robust package reflects our commitment to rewarding our talented team members who drive our mission forward.

As an Environmental Test Technician at SpaceX, you can expect a flexible work schedule with both first and second-shift openings available. You will work either from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM or from 3:00 PM to 1:30 AM, with the possibility of weekends and extended hours. Flexibility is a key requirement to accommodate the dynamic pace of our projects as we strive to innovate in the aerospace sector.

In your response, highlight specific projects where you assembled, tested, or maintained mechanical or structural systems. Discuss techniques you used and any challenges faced, along with how you resolved them. Emphasize your hands-on experience and your ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environments.

Safety is paramount in any technical role. When answering, mention your understanding of safety protocols, how you assess risks before commencing testing, and your experience with handling equipment safely. Provide examples of past experiences where you prioritized safety and followed all guidelines diligently.

Share a specific example where you identified, diagnosed, and resolved a mechanical issue. Discuss the steps taken, tools used, and how your actions contributed to the successful completion of a project. Highlight your analytical skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

When responding, detail your hands-on experience with thermal vacuum systems. Discuss any specific tests you conducted, the outcomes, and how your contributions impacted the project’s success. If applicable, mention any relevant equipment or methodologies you are skilled in.

Answer this by showcasing your commitment to continuous learning. Mention any resources you utilize such as industry publications, training sessions, or professional groups. Providing an example of how you applied new knowledge to a project can further strengthen your response.

Focus on your role in the collaboration, illustrating how your input helped increase operational efficiency or develop new test methods. Highlight communication skills and any technical knowledge that facilitated this teamwork and led to successful project results.

Provide insights into the types of test equipment you have managed, along with specific maintenance protocols you followed. Discuss how you diagnosed and fixed issues, your familiarity with using multimeters and oscilloscopes, and your commitment to keeping equipment in optimal condition.

When answering, consider providing strategies you use, such as creating to-do lists, setting deadlines, or collaborating with teammates. Illustrate your ability to remain organized and focused even when faced with competing priorities or urgent tasks.

Discuss your skills related to operating fabrication equipment like mills and lathes, along with any experience in creating or modifying components. Mention past projects where you executed fabrication tasks and how this experience enhances your work as an Environmental Test Technician.

Craft a response that's both personal and professional. Mention your passion for space exploration, innovation, and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking projects like Starlink. Share your admiration for SpaceX's mission and any specific goals you hope to achieve in the role.