NDE Inspector (Starship)

As an NDE Inspector at SpaceX, you will perform critical surface and volumetric inspections to ensure the quality of flight components and production assemblies. Your responsibilities include interpreting and reporting findings to production and engineering teams, reviewing engineering drawings, and supporting the development of NDE inspection techniques for complex geometries.

To become an NDE Inspector at SpaceX, a high school diploma or equivalency certificate is required. Additionally, you must possess nondestructive evaluation Level II or Level III certification per ASNT TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidelines in at least one inspection method, such as eddy current, radiography, or ultrasonic testing.

Preferred candidates for the NDE Inspector position at SpaceX typically have at least 2+ years of experience as a level II nondestructive evaluation/testing inspector, ideally within the aerospace industry. Experience using various NDE methods for inspecting advanced materials, such as high strength aluminum alloys and super alloys, is also an advantage.

Skills that are highly valued for the NDE Inspector role at SpaceX include operational experience with NDE methods, knowledge of industry standards such as NASA 5009, proficiency with UTEX InspectionWare or similar software, and familiarity with Lean principles for continuous improvement.

As an NDE Inspector at SpaceX, you can anticipate a competitive pay range along with comprehensive benefits including healthcare coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid parental leave, three weeks of paid vacation, and various employee perks. You may also be eligible for stock options and discretionary bonuses.

When asked about your experience with nondestructive testing methods, be specific about the methods you've used and the projects you've worked on. Discuss any certifications you hold, such as Level II or Level III in relevant techniques, and highlight your operational experience in a previous role.

To ensure accuracy in NDE inspections, always adhere to established procedures and standards. Use calibration and validation techniques and double-check your equipment before starting. Discuss a specific instance where your attention to detail made a difference in inspection results.

Discussing challenges gives you a chance to showcase your problem-solving skills. Be honest about a particular issue you encountered, and explain how you addressed it. Focus on teamwork and communication with engineering teams to resolve the problem effectively.

Staying updated on industry standards is crucial. Discuss how you engage with professional organizations, attend seminars or training sessions, and read industry publications to keep yourself informed about changes and advancements in NDE technologies.

Teamwork is essential in the NDE field. Speak about your collaborative experiences, emphasizing how you communicate findings with other departments and how collective effort helps to ensure the highest quality in aerospace manufacturing.

Your ability to interpret engineering drawings is critical. Explain your familiarity with various types of drawings and your process for understanding specifications and requirements. Provide examples of how you've successfully used this skill in prior roles.

When training new inspectors, I focus on a structured approach, including hands-on training, mentorship, and a review of essential NDE principles. Discussing a situation where you successfully mentored a teammate can demonstrate your leadership and communication skills.

Discuss a scenario where your actions led to a meaningful outcome, such as improving inspection processes or identifying a critical issue early in a project. Highlight the skills you used and the impact it had on the overall project.

List the specific NDE tools you are proficient in, such as ultrasonic testers or radiographic equipment, and explain your level of expertise with each. Mention any software knowledge, like UTEX InspectionWare, and how you leverage these tools to enhance your inspections.

To ensure compliance with safety regulations, I prioritize knowledge of relevant standards and regulations, undertake safety training, and implement safety best practices on the job. Provide an example that illustrates your commitment to maintaining safety while fulfilling your NDE responsibilities.