Materials Engineer, Polymers (Dragon)
SpaceXAbout the role
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.
MATERIALS ENGINEER, POLYMERS (DRAGON)
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Own qualification and multi-flight certification of polymeric/ elastomeric materials and composites used in the Dragon program; these materials include structural and non-structural plastics and adhesives, elastomeric seals, gap-filling sealants, thermal protection systems, and fiber-reinforced composites
- Characterize degradation mechanisms of polymeric, composite, and metallic hardware, and own developing environmental correction factors for material design allowables
- Qualify material design updates that support increased performance life and reduced refurbishment processing
- Support root cause failure investigations as a subject matter expert for adhesive/ rubber/ plastic/ composite failure mechanisms
- Provide technical reviews and advising for design and manufacturability through drawing reviews, specification ownership, and defining of material requirements
- Interface with suppliers on technical issues with polymers, composite raw materials, new materials and processes, and fabricated hardware
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering, polymer science, chemical engineering, chemistry, physics, or other equivalent engineering discipline
- 1+ years of experience in a materials engineering, manufacturing or process engineering role (including school projects, clubs, or internships)
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- M.S. or Ph.D. Materials Science in Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or other engineering discipline
- Experience in polymer characterization techniques and equipment, including scanning electron microscopy / energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), lateral flow assays (LFA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermomechanical analysis (TMA), rheometry, optical microscopy, mechanical property testing
- Diverse knowledge of aerospace-quality polymeric and elastomeric materials and their processing
- Broad understanding of degradation mechanisms and failure modes of polymeric and composite materials
- Experience with technical review of materials processing and understanding interactions between process variables and the resulting material performance
- Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills with enthusiasm for the team’s spirit of innovation in cutting-edge technology
- Demonstrated track record of success in a fast-paced and highly competitive environment
- Strong ability to work autonomously and challenge the status quo
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Able to work longer hours and weekends to support critical needs
- Willingness to travel up to 50% in support of hardware refurb and launch site processing
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Materials Engineer/Level I: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year
Materials Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $130,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
- To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR
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