Join SpaceX as a Development Test Technician to support testing of advanced vehicle and spacecraft designs.
Posted by employer 2 days ago
First seen on Joblaze 1 day ago
Last verified on the company career page 1 day ago
What you'll build
- Fabricate metallic piece parts to print using machine shop equipment
- Assemble test equipment to print
- Assemble large mechanical assemblies
- Fabricate and assemble high-pressure pneumatic and hydraulic fluid systems
Must have
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical fabrication
Nice to have
- Positive attitude and able to work well on a team
- Able to work independently and efficiently with minimal supervision
- Able to read mechanical and engineering drawings
- Knowledge/experience with cryogenic systems
- Proficient computer skills
Practical constraints
- Able to work at elevated heights occasionally
- Physical effort including standing, lifting, and carrying equipment up to 30 lbs. unassisted
- Ability to work all required shift hours, including overtime and weekends when needed
- Willing to travel for short trips as needed, up to 10% travel
Requirements
- Experience
- 5+ years
- Education
- High school
- Visa
- No sponsorship (stated in posting)
Benefits
Joblaze summary
The Development Test Technician at SpaceX plays a crucial role in the R&D team, focusing on the fabrication and assembly of test equipment and mechanical systems for spacecraft. This position requires expertise in mechanical fabrication, including the use of machine shop tools and the assembly of high-pressure fluid systems. Ideal candidates have significant experience in mechanical work, a strong attention to detail, and the ability to interpret engineering drawings. The role is suited for seasoned technicians who thrive in a collaborative and fast-paced environment.
Joblaze insights
- Listed yesterday — first seen on Joblaze September 30, 2026. Last confirmed on SpaceX's careers page September 30, 2026.
Quick facts
- Is the Development Test Technician (Starship Mechanisms) - Level 4/5 role remote?
- No — this is an on-site role in Hawthorne, CA, United States.
- What's the salary range?
- SpaceX lists $36–$51 for this role.
- How much experience is required?
- At least 5 years of relevant experience for this Development Test Technician (Starship Mechanisms) - Level 4/5 role.
- Where is the role based?
- SpaceX is hiring for this position in Hawthorne, CA, United States.
- What seniority level is this role?
- SpaceX targets mid-level candidates for this position.
- Is this full-time or contract?
- Full-time for this Development Test Technician (Starship Mechanisms) - Level 4/5 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.
DEVELOPMENT TEST TECHNICIAN – LEVEL 4/5
Development test operations is a fast-paced R&D focused group that supports testing of the latest vehicle and spacecraft designs. Test technicians work closely with test engineers to support fabrication, assembly, and operation of test stands and equipment.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Fabricate metallic piece parts to print using machine shop equipment: mill, lathe, etc
- Assemble test equipment to print, including on-assembly fabrication operations: precision match drilling, welding, riveting, etc
- Assemble large mechanical assemblies that require strategic part manipulation and heavy lift operations and equipment
- Fabricate and assemble high-pressure pneumatic and hydraulic fluid systems, including bending/flaring/assembling of stainless steel and flexible tubing
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical fabrication
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Positive attitude and able to work well on a team
- Able to work independently and efficiently with minimal supervision
- Able to stay organized with strong attention to detail
- Able to read mechanical and engineering drawings and interpret tolerances (including GD&T)
- Able to read and interpret fluid or electrical schematics
- Skilled with mechanical hand tools
- Knowledge/experience with AN, MS, MP, and Swagelok fluid connections
- Knowledge/experience with cryogenic systems (gaseous and liquid)
- Knowledge/experience working with electrical components and systems
- Experience lifting, rigging, and preparing for heavy crane operations of complicated parts
- Proficient computer skills; comfortable with using email and the Microsoft Office suite
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Able to work at elevated heights occasionally (scissor lifts and articulated boom lifts)
- Physical effort including standing, lifting, and carrying equipment up to 30 lbs. unassisted
- Able to work in outdoor environments as needed
- Ability to work all required shift hours, including overtime and weekends when needed
- Willing to travel for short trips as needed, up to 10% travel
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Development Test Technician/Level 4: $36.00 - $43.00/hour
Development Test Technician/Level 5: $41.00 - $51.00/hour
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
Standard company text repeated across SpaceX's postings is omitted here.