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Tooling Inspector (Starship) - Level 4/5

Join SpaceX as a Tooling Inspector to ensure the quality of critical components for the Starship program.

Location
Hawthorne, CA
Compensation
$4k–$5.8k/hr
Level
mid
Type
full time · On-site

Posted by employer 1 month ago

First seen on Joblaze 1 month ago

Last verified on the company career page 18 hours ago

Requirements

Experience
5+ years
Education
High school

Not disclosed in this posting: visa sponsorship.

Benefits

401k Match Paid Vacation Equity/Stock Options Paid Holidays Health Insurance Parental Leave

Joblaze summary

The Tooling Inspector at SpaceX plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and precision of components for the Starship program through in-process and end-of-line inspections. This position requires expertise in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), as well as proficiency with laser trackers and Verisurf software to analyze and document data effectively. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in quality assurance and a strong background in manufacturing processes, making this role suitable for seasoned professionals. The position is part of a dynamic team dedicated to advancing space exploration technology.

Joblaze insights

  • Listed about a month ago — first seen on Joblaze August 15, 2026. Last confirmed on SpaceX's careers page October 9, 2026.
  • Microsoft Office appears in 5.5% of 109 comparable mid qa roles in United States; Laser Tracker appears in 0.9% of 109 comparable mid qa roles in United States.

Quick facts

Is the Tooling Inspector (Starship) - Level 4/5 role remote?
No — this is an on-site role in Hawthorne, CA.
What's the salary range?
SpaceX lists $4,000–$5,800 for this role.
How much experience is required?
At least 5 years of relevant experience for this Tooling Inspector (Starship) - Level 4/5 role.
Where is the role based?
SpaceX is hiring for this position in Hawthorne, CA.
What's the tech stack?
Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, Inspection tools, Laser Tracker, Microsoft Office, Romer Arm, Verisurf.
What seniority level is this role?
SpaceX targets mid-level candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?
Full-time for this Tooling Inspector (Starship) - 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.

TOOLING INSPECTOR (STARSHIP) - LEVEL 4/5

Our quality inspectors are responsible for being the last line of defense in assuring mission success. You will perform in-process and end-of-line inspections to verify that all key performance and design characteristics are met or exceeded during hardware manufacturing. You will be working hands on with the most cutting-edge rocket technology currently available and will be part of history. This position will support the Tooling Quality Inspection team at the SpaceX Hawthorne facility, which is responsible for the most critical components of our Starship program.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Use in-depth familiarity of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to interpret blueprints at all assembly levels
  • Collect geometric data using laser tracker and Romer Arm through model-based software such as Verisurf
  • Discern how best to establish a reference system for the current task then apply it and install it both on and off the part
  • Provide analysis of collected data and evaluate it to provide direction for remaining tooling operations
  • Apply the fabrication process on large structures and understand the environmental effects such as free states, temperature swings, and weld shrinkage
  • Effectively communicate to fabricators, machinists, assemblers, engineers, and other parties as required
  • Provide detailed in-process inspections on flight and development hardware, using detailed drawing, CAD models, and established processes to verify conformance to design requirements
  • Document production and test anomalies in accordance with prescribed procedures and processes
  • Process non-conforming products and assist engineering in root cause analysis and corrective action
  • Routinely observe technical operations and offer guidance and/or serve as an additional technical resource

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certification
  • 5+ years of professional experience working with laser trackers and Romer arms
  • 5+ years of experience with Verisurf software

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience with quality assurance principles, methods, and processes
  • Advanced skill level with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook) and Windows OS
  • Experience analyzing data and generating Inspection data reports
  • Experience using inspection tools and equipment such as, micrometers, gauge blocks, dial indicators, height gauges, optical comparators, profilometers, and portable CMM
  • Strong understanding of geometric relationships
  • Understanding of the manufacturing process of large structures from concept to completion
  • Ability to visualize 3D space and integrate complex geometries on both large and small fabrications
  • Ability to adapt to an extremely dynamic work environment while maintaining a positive attitude. Demonstrated leadership and dependability
  • Ability to find solutions to complex problems using critical thinking while drawing from previous experience
  • Ability to maintain the highest level of safety on the job site and bring new ideas of how to continue to work safely and effectively in new locations and changing environments
  • Desire to integrate with teams that can make rapid changes and provide valuable skills to its cohesion and effectiveness

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to work 2nd shift schedule:
    • Monday to Friday: 11:00AM - 9:30PM
  • Must be willing to work overtime, and/or weekends as needed
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Must be willing to travel
  • Must be able to climb ladders, stoop, bend, crawl, and work in tight spaces

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Tooling Inspector/Level 4: $40.00 - $49.00/hour
Tooling Inspector/Level 5: $45.50 - $58.00/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.

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