Support the safe operation and maintenance of vessel mechanical systems as an Assistant Engineer at SpaceX.
Posted by employer 5 days ago
First seen on Joblaze 5 days ago
Last verified on the company career page 1 day ago
What you'll build
- Lead and support the safe operation at sea and maintenance of vessel mechanical systems
- Work with the vessel’s master for the bunkering of vessel fluids
- Complete Engine Room reports and logbooks
- Stand engine room watches as OICEW
- Support planning and maintenance in support of ongoing operations
Must have
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)/license: Assistant Engineer Unlimited
- 1+ years of professional experience in an offshore Chief Engineer, Assistant Engineer, or QMED role
Nice to have
- Bachelor's degree in naval architecture, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, or other technical discipline
- 3+ years of professional experience working in an offshore, vessel role
- Person in Charge (PIC) certification for bunkering
Practical constraints
- Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base & Cape Canaveral
- Position requires a Merchant Mariner credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing
- Must be willing to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary
- 50-hour work week is typical
Requirements
- Experience
- 1–3 years
- Education
- High school
Not disclosed in this posting: compensation, visa sponsorship.
Joblaze summary
The Ark Vessel Assistant Engineer at SpaceX is responsible for the safe operation and maintenance of vessel mechanical systems, including propulsion and electrical systems, while reporting to the Chief Engineer. This role requires a solid foundation in marine engineering principles, with a focus on regulatory compliance and vessel management systems. Ideal candidates will have at least one year of relevant offshore experience and a Merchant Mariner Credential, making this position suitable for those with a background in marine engineering or related fields. The role involves collaboration with the Marine Operations team to ensure vessel readiness and support ongoing missions.
Joblaze insights
- Listed 5 days ago — first seen on Joblaze October 15, 2026. Last confirmed on SpaceX's careers page October 19, 2026.
Quick facts
- Is the Ark Vessel Assistant Engineer role remote?
- No — this is an on-site role in Long Beach, CA.
- How much experience is required?
- 1–3 years of relevant experience for this Ark Vessel Assistant Engineer role.
- Where is the role based?
- SpaceX is hiring for this position in Long Beach, CA.
- What seniority level is this role?
- SpaceX targets mid-level candidates for this position.
- Is this full-time or contract?
- Full-time for this Ark Vessel Assistant Engineer role at SpaceX.
From the original posting
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
ARK VESSEL ASSISTANT ENGINEER
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead and support the safe operation at sea and maintenance of vessel mechanical systems including propulsion, electrical, and auxiliary systems, reporting to the Chief Engineer
- Work with the vessel’s master and/or licensed officer for the bunkering of vessel fluids and management of vessel bilge, oil, and fuel resources
- Complete Engine Room reports, logbooks, and data collection in accordance with regulations and company standards
- Stand engine room watches as OICEW
- Responsible for supporting the cleanliness and upkeep standards of the vessel while onboard
- Support planning and maintenance in support of ongoing operations and ensure full-life support of the SpaceX fleet of vessels
- Work with the Marine Operations team to ensure the highest standards of readiness by personally assisting in repairs or synchronizing support where required
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)/license: Assistant Engineer Unlimited (1st, 2nd, 3rd AE)
- 1+ years of professional experience in an offshore Chief Engineer, Assistant Engineer, or QMED role
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor's degree in naval architecture, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, or other technical discipline
- Knowledge of vessel management systems, safety management systems, and regulatory programs such as OPA 90, MARPOL, ABS classing, etc.
- 3+ years of professional experience working in an offshore, vessel role that deals with examinations or licensing-efforts with US Coast Guard (USCG) and/or American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) regulations
- Willing to work outdoors and in maritime environments, and able to work flexible hours during mission support periods
- Person in Charge (PIC) certification for bunkering
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
-
Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base & Cape Canaveral
- Position requires a Merchant Mariner credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing in accordance with 46 CFR 16 and 49 CFR 40
- Must be willing to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary; role may require travel
- 50-hour work week is typical, and may vary depending on site operational needs, flexibility is required
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
Standard company text repeated across SpaceX's postings is omitted here.