Internship Autonomous Vehicle Testing Jobs in Kansas

Overview

SpaceX seeks Launch Engineer, Falcon Engineering to support the rapid and reliable reuse, integration, and launch of Falcon 9 flight vehicles. The role involves on-site assembly, integration, testing, and close collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure flight readiness.

Responsibilities

• Process Falcon 9 flight vehicles to enable rapid and reliable rocket reuse, integration, and launch
• Develop and execute procedures for checkout and integration of new and flight-proven rockets and ground support equipment
• Assist with and lead hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of new and flight-proven vehicle assemblies
• Lead on-site operations in coordination with engineering staff from other departments and SpaceX locations to resolve off-nominal test results and ensure flight readiness
• Direct and collaborate with highly skilled field technicians on a daily basis
• Design and develop tools and hardware to enable vehicle assembly and conduct vehicle system testing
• Identify high-risk processes during flight hardware processing and implement improvements to ensure operational excellence
• Lead root cause and corrective action investigations to prevent downstream disruptions and improve product reliability and quality
• Rapidly develop and refine manufacturing assembly procedures based on lessons learned
• Manage work orders and drive non-conformances into actionable items and system improvements

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of hands-on experience with mechanical, electrical and/or fluid systems in design, manufacturing, or implementation phases (class projects or internships qualify)

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Advanced degree in mechatronics, mechanical, aerospace, electrical, or computer engineering
• 3+ years of professional experience designing, building, integrating, and testing complex multi-disciplinary systems
• Experience writing test plans and test procedures
• Experience integrating electrical, mechanical, and software systems (launch vehicle/spacecraft experience not required)
• Proficiency with launch vehicle or spacecraft integration; composite structure design or testing; test operations with gases/fluids; data acquisition setup and field measurements
• Experience testing and operating with hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases/fluids)
• Experience with large assembly moves (e.g., crane operations)
• Flight hardware avionics experience
• Clear and accurate communication with a wide range of people
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomous, demanding startup environment
• Ability to learn, lead others, and help others learn while maintaining productivity
• Advanced degree in electrical, computer, mechatronics, mechanical, or aerospace engineering

Additional Requirements

• Ability to pass a background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base
• Physical ability to stand, lift, and carry moderately heavy materials or equipment (15–35 lbs)
• Strong focus and concentration in high-stress environments and potential extended hours
• Flexibility on shifts; occasional travel may be required

Compensation and Benefits

Pay Range: Level 1: $100,000.00 – $117,500.00; Level 2: $115,000.00 – $140,000.00

Your actual level and base salary will be determined case-by-case based on job-related knowledge, education, and experience. Base salary is part of SpaceX total rewards, which may include long-term incentives (stock or cash awards), discretionary bonuses, and the potential to purchase additional stock through the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage; 401(k); short- and long-term disability insurance; life insurance; paid parental leave; and other benefits are also available. A minimum of three weeks of paid vacation and ten or more paid holidays per year are typical, with sick leave as per company policy.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment is based on merit and qualifications and is not influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or other legally protected status.