Structural Engineer, Launch Pad (Starship)

As a Structural Engineer at SpaceX, especially for the Launch Pad (Starship) project, you will oversee the development of structural designs, manage engineering documentation, and lead project teams from design through construction. Additionally, you will conduct onsite engineering inspections and resolve any field-related conflicts.

To qualify for the Structural Engineer position at SpaceX, candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and have at least one year of professional experience in design, analysis, construction, or drafting. A Professional Engineering (PE) or Structural Engineering (SE) license is preferred.

SpaceX invests in its Structural Engineers’ professional growth by providing opportunities for continuous learning, access to cutting-edge technologies, and engaging in high-stakes, real-world projects that support their career advancement.

Structural Engineers at SpaceX frequently utilize software such as Revit, SAP 2000, STAAD Pro, RISA-3D, and ETABS for structural analysis and design. Familiarity with these tools is considered a strong asset.

The work environment for a Structural Engineer at SpaceX in Cape Canaveral includes hands-on work onsite, often in challenging weather conditions. This role requires working in various environments while adhering to safety protocols and using personal protective equipment.

In answering this question, highlight your project management skills and provide an overview of your approach, including how you organize tasks, coordinate with different teams, and ensure that project deadlines are met while maintaining a high standard of quality.

Illustrate your problem-solving skills by discussing specific examples when you had to manage competing deadlines or tasks. Emphasize your organizational skills and ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders to find solutions.

Be prepared to elaborate on your experience with various structural analysis software. Discuss your preferences based on usability, features, or specific project experiences and how these tools have contributed to your success in previous roles.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your response. Discuss the specific conflict, your role in resolving it, and the impact of your solution on the project and teamwork dynamics.

Provide insights into the unique challenges and standards within the aerospace sector, along with how your experience aligns with those requirements. Mention your familiarity with industry codes and how they inform your design principles.

Explain your familiarity with regulations such as the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), American Concrete Institute (ACI), and others. Highlight specific measures you take to incorporate safety standards into your designs.

Illustrate your collaborative skills and mention specific projects where you worked closely with other disciplines, detailing how such collaborations enhance project outcomes and innovation.

Show your commitment to continuous learning through professional development. Mention attending workshops, seminars, engaging with engineering communities, or pursuing further education to keep your skills sharp.

Convey your analytical skills by providing examples of how data informed your decisions in project design or management, ultimately leading to improvements in efficiency or project outcomes.

Discuss your time management strategies, mentioning tools or methods you use to prioritize work effectively and how you ensure that all projects receive the attention they require without compromising quality.