Paint Technician (Falcon 9) - Weekend Shift

The Paint Technician (Falcon 9) at SpaceX is responsible for a variety of essential tasks including mixing, stripping, painting, and detailing advanced paint systems on launch vehicles. You will prepare metallic substrates, apply sealants and adhesives, and conduct maintenance on various paint spraying equipment. Periodically, you will also work on safety and quality improvement projects, ensuring all operations meet SpaceX’s high standards.

To qualify for the Paint Technician (Falcon 9) role at SpaceX, candidates must have a high school diploma or an equivalent certificate, along with a minimum of one year of experience in spraying advanced paint systems. Alternatively, a degree or certificate from an accredited trade school can fulfill this requirement. While not mandatory, having three or more years of experience in the aerospace or aviation industry is preferred.

A great Paint Technician (Falcon 9) at SpaceX has a keen eye for detail and the ability to work with advanced paint systems, including a variety of materials like epoxies and acrylics. Skills in interpreting technical drawings, performing basic shop math, and managing mix ratios are crucial. Excellent communication skills are also important for collaborating with team members and following safety protocols.

The Paint Technician (Falcon 9) position at SpaceX requires working on a weekend shift from Friday to Monday, 4:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Candidates should be prepared for a hands-on role that includes standing for up to eight hours and potentially lifting up to 25 lbs. unassisted. Comfort with stooping, bending, and climbing ladders is essential, as work may occur in tight spaces.

SpaceX offers a range of benefits for Paint Technicians, including competitive pay, comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, and life insurance. Additionally, employees may receive stock options and long-term incentives, paid vacation, and paid holidays. The benefits package is designed to support both your professional growth and personal well-being.

When answering this question, highlight specific types of paint systems you have worked with, such as epoxies or solvent-based paints, and discuss any relevant experience in mixing, applying, and maintaining these systems. Be prepared to share details about projects where you faced challenges and how you overcame them.

Discuss the importance of following precise mix ratios and cure schedules. You can explain your methods for checking and double-checking measurements, as well as your experience with precision measuring tools like calipers or elcometers to ensure high-quality results.

Emphasize your understanding of proper safety procedures, such as using personal protective equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, and safe handling of chemicals. Providing examples of how you have applied safety measures in past positions will demonstrate your commitment to workplace safety.

Share a specific instance where you identified an inefficiency in your painting processes or equipment maintenance and took action to improve it. Outline the steps you took and the positive outcomes that resulted, showcasing your problem-solving skills and initiative.

Talk about your approach to prioritization and time management. Provide examples of past situations where you maintained quality while meeting deadlines, demonstrating your ability to stay focused and deliver results under pressure.

Mention specific tools like gravity-fed, pressure pot, or airless spray equipment, outlining your proficiency with each. You might also want to talk about how your experience with these tools contributes to efficiency and quality in your work.

Explain your process for understanding and utilizing technical documents. Emphasize any training you have received and how you have practiced interpreting drawings in previous positions, ensuring that you follow instructions accurately in your work.

This is an opportunity to express your passion for aerospace and your motivation for working at SpaceX. Mention experiences or influences that sparked your interest in painting and how you see your skills contributing to space exploration.

Provide a detailed account of a challenging paint issue you encountered, the steps you took to identify the cause, and how you resolved it. Focus on the analytical skills and your ability to think on your feet that were required during this process.

Articulate your aspirations in the aerospace industry and how the Paint Technician role at SpaceX fits into those goals. Discuss your desire to grow your skills and potentially take on more responsibilities or advanced roles within the company.