SpaceX
Operations Engineer (Starship Machining)
About this role
SpaceX seeks an Operations Engineer to manage factory build-out and production optimization for Starship machining operations in Hawthorne. You'll design facility layouts, install and commission CNC machinery, coordinate with vendors, and drive continuous process improvements while maintaining a strong focus on safety and efficiency.
What you'll do
- Design and own factory layouts that increase machining capacity and capability for Starship components
- Lead installation and commissioning of automated CNC machining cells and ancillary production equipment
- Conduct vendor negotiations, job walks, and hold vendors accountable to schedule
- Execute complex projects rapidly with minimal time and cost impact
- Develop analysis tools and drive process improvements across production teams
- Ensure safety compliance throughout factory build-out and optimize work centers for ergonomics
What they're looking for
- Manufacturing or operations engineering in developmental environments
- CNC machinery and automated cell installation/commissioning
- Process engineering and capacity modeling
- Project management and facility design
- Excel, SQL, or Python/R for analysis
- Lean and Six Sigma principles
- Cross-functional collaboration and problem-solving
- Industrial facilities knowledge (HVAC, electrical, structural)
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match eligibility
- Long-term stock incentives and Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- 3 weeks paid vacation plus 10+ paid holidays annually
- Paid parental leave and disability insurance
- Discretionary bonuses and various perks
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SpaceX
SpaceX develops advanced spacecraft and satellite systems, including the Starshield government satellite constellation and Starfall re-entry cargo capsule for global delivery. The company is hiring engineers in avionics integration, software test automation, mechanical design, and hardware reliability to validate flight-critical systems and ensure mission success.
- Website
- spacex.com
Likely interview questions
- Describe your experience installing and commissioning automated manufacturing equipment—what was the most complex system you've worked with and what challenges did you overcome?
- Walk us through how you've used data analysis (Excel, SQL, Python) to identify and solve a production bottleneck or efficiency problem.