Machine Maintenance Technician - 2nd Shift

As a Machine Maintenance Technician at SpaceX, your primary responsibilities will include maintaining and repairing all assets to ensure their proper operating condition. You'll troubleshoot and repair various control devices, such as PLCs and CNC controls, and overhaul mechanical systems like pumps and chillers. Performing work orders, inspections, and adjustments, and providing maintenance on various equipment—including vacuum and thermal chambers—will also be essential. Your role is critical to keeping SpaceX’s production uninterrupted, and you’ll collaborate closely with engineers and fellow technicians.

To qualify for the Machine Maintenance Technician role at SpaceX, you need a high school diploma or an equivalent certificate. A minimum of 2 years of experience as a maintenance technician is required, along with 2 years of experience handling hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical repairs. While not mandatory, having over 5 years of maintenance experience, industrial multi-craft skills, and familiarity with the aerospace, automotive, or semiconductor fields will significantly enhance your application.

Preferred skills for the Machine Maintenance Technician role at SpaceX include strong troubleshooting abilities, familiarity with Millwright skills, and experience in industrial multi-craft and mechanical trades. Knowledge of reading and interpreting electrical and pneumatic schematics is highly valued. In addition, candidates with experience in PLC programming, the ability to operate hand and power tools, and a precise inspection background will have an added advantage. Effective organization and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also essential.

The Machine Maintenance Technician position at SpaceX for the 2nd shift operates from Monday to Friday, specifically from 3:30 PM to 2 AM. It is important to be flexible to work overtime and weekends as needed, ensuring high availability and support for the production line as you tackle maintenance tasks. This schedule not only provides a great work-life balance but also allows you to contribute during crucial hours of operation.

SpaceX offers an impressive array of benefits for its Machine Maintenance Technicians, including competitive pay ranging from $25.00 to $45.00 per hour based on your level and experience. In addition to monetary compensation, employees receive comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, and disability insurance. You’ll also enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation accrual, and numerous holiday benefits. Alongside these practical perks, there are additional opportunities for stock options and discounts that make joining SpaceX an exceptional choice.

When troubleshooting mechanical systems, I begin by analyzing the symptoms to identify potential issues. I consult schematics and previous maintenance records to understand the equipment's usual performance. Often, I break down the problem systematically—checking relevant components step by step—and using diagnostic tools to pinpoint the root cause effectively. Clear communication with team members and maintaining a log of findings greatly aids in developing solutions as a Machine Maintenance Technician.

During my previous roles, I gained significant experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting. I’ve worked with various PLC systems to design and implement automation solutions. I troubleshoot through logic diagrams, analyzing signal flow and isolating faults. I ensure that each control logic is functioning as expected, and I am proactive in updating the control program when modifications are needed. My focus is not just on fixing problems, but on optimizing processes for greater efficiency.

Safety is my top priority during all maintenance activities. I ensure to wear the required PPE and familiarize myself with safety protocols before starting any task. I always ensure machinery is locked out and tagged out before repairs, minimizing risks. Maintaining a clean and organized workspace is essential to prevent accidents. Continuous education on safety standards and emergency procedures helps me remain current in my practices, ensuring a safety-first approach.

One of the most challenging mechanical issues I encountered was a persistent failure of a hydraulic press that affected production. After thorough inspection and analysis, I discovered that one of the key hydraulic hoses was compromised. I not only replaced the faulty hose but also redesigned the routing to mitigate future wear. The result was a successful restoration of operation and an increase in overall efficiency in the production line.

Managing time effectively is crucial as a Machine Maintenance Technician, especially when dealing with multiple requests. I prioritize tasks based on production impact and urgency. I use checklists to keep track of maintenance jobs and their status. Setting realistic timelines and communicating with supervisors about workload helps align expectations. Using downtime effectively and focusing on preventive maintenance also reduces unexpected issues down the line.

As a Machine Maintenance Technician, I am proficient with a wide range of tools, including hand tools, power tools, PLC diagnostic equipment, and precision measurement devices. I'm experienced with hydraulic lifts and forklifts for heavy equipment handling. Familiarity with specialized tools for various machinery components, such as thermal chambers and CNC machines, further enhances my effectiveness in this role. Continuous training allows me to keep up with advancements.

I have extensive experience working with both pneumatic and hydraulic systems. I’ve performed routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on compressors, cylinders, and pumps. Understanding the differences between the two systems allows me to apply appropriate diagnostic techniques and performance tests. This hands-on experience enables me to maintain system efficiency and quickly address any operational challenges.

I believe that thorough documentation of maintenance work is essential to streamline future tasks and facilitate communication among team members. I maintain detailed repair logs that include problem descriptions, actions taken, parts replaced, and time spent on each task. I also take photos to illustrate repairs when necessary. Clear and organized reports not only aid in accountability, but they also enable other technicians to understand and learn from past maintenance efforts.

To ensure the efficiency of my work environment, I adopt a systematic approach that includes organizing tools and materials, adhering to cleanliness, and following preventive maintenance schedules strictly. I always aim to anticipate potential downtime and mitigate issues before they happen. Additionally, collaborating with fellow technicians and engineers to improve processes and sharing best practices fosters a culture of efficiency and continuous improvement.

I want to work for SpaceX as a Machine Maintenance Technician because I am passionate about the aerospace industry and the pioneering work that SpaceX is doing to advance human space exploration. The opportunity to troubleshoot and maintain advanced technology that supports missions to Mars is incredibly exciting to me. I also admire SpaceX's commitment to innovation and teamwork, and I'm eager to contribute my skills to support this ambitious vision.