Integration & Test Engineer (Falcon 9 Structures) - Weekend 2nd Shift

As an Integration & Test Engineer (Falcon 9 Structures) at SpaceX, your responsibilities include overseeing the build and inspection process of the Falcon launch vehicle's structural assembly, developing and qualifying manufacturing processes, and collaborating with engineers and technicians to address production challenges. You will also work closely with design teams to ensure manufacturability while resolving product non-conformances and implementing root cause corrective actions.

To qualify for the Integration & Test Engineer (Falcon 9 Structures) role at SpaceX, candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline and have at least 1 year of engineering experience in manufacturing or production. Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree, experience with large mechanical assemblies, and familiarity with metallic manufacturing techniques and processes.

Having experience in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, materials, or industrial engineering is beneficial for the Integration & Test Engineer role at SpaceX. Additionally, involvement in professional engineering societies, collegiate design projects, and experience in a production environment, especially within the aerospace industry, can enhance your candidacy.

The Integration & Test Engineer (Falcon 9 Structures) position at SpaceX requires working the Weekend 2nd Shift, specifically Thursday through Sunday from 4:00 PM to 4:30 AM. Applicants should be prepared to work extended hours or weekends when needed, as the role may involve hands-on work directly with hardware on the production floor.

SpaceX offers a competitive benefits package to Integration & Test Engineers, including comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance, access to a 401(k) plan, life insurance, and long-term disability insurance. Employees can also enjoy paid parental leave, vacation time, and holidays, along with potential stock options and bonuses.

When answering this question, highlight specific manufacturing processes you've worked with, particularly those applicable to aerospace, such as welding, metal forming, or assembly. Discuss any relevant projects or experiences where you contributed to improving efficiency or quality in a manufacturing environment.

In your response, provide a specific example of a production challenge you faced. Explain the steps you took to analyze the problem, create a plan for resolution, and implement corrective actions. Be sure to mention any collaboration with team members that facilitated a successful outcome.

To ensure manufacturability, discuss your approach to collaborating with design engineers early in the design process. Mention techniques like Design for Manufacturability and Assembly (DFMA) you employ to evaluate designs and suggest improvements that align with production capabilities and efficiency.

Detail your experience with 3D CAD software or any specific design tools relevant to engineering tasks. Mention how you've utilized these tools for designing components or assemblies, sharing a project where your design work significantly impacted production outcomes.

Discuss your time management techniques and methods for prioritizing tasks based on urgency and impact. Provide an example situation where you successfully managed multiple responsibilities and ensured project deadlines were met without sacrificing quality.

Share a detailed example of a time you conducted root cause analysis for a product non-conformance. Explain the analysis process you used, how you identified the root cause, and what corrective actions were taken to prevent future occurrences.

Describe your strategy for managing changes to engineering specifications. Highlight your communication skills and how you collaborate with other teams to adapt to changes while minimizing disruptions to production schedules.

Explain your commitment to safety and detail the specific protocols you adhere to in manufacturing settings, particularly those relevant to aerospace. Discuss how you've encouraged a culture of safety among colleagues and ensured compliance with safety regulations.

In your response, express your passion for space exploration and how SpaceX's mission aligns with your personal and professional goals. Share what specifically excites you about the opportunity to contribute to the Falcon 9 projects and innovate in the aerospace industry.

Discuss the importance of problem-solving skills along with technical expertise. Explain how these qualities allow engineers to not only understand complex systems but also develop innovative solutions that support successful spacecraft production and mission success.