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Starbase Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Sr. Mechanical Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA

$130K - $180K/yr

SR. MECHANICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIP) Our elite Starbase team is working on our planet's toughest and most audacious project: making humanity multi-planetary. The mechanical engineer is responsible for ...

SpaceX

Operations Engineer (Material Flow)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Understand critical part flow categories to develop specific plans that will allow Starbase to achieve significant scale. Use value stream mapping to ensure end-to-end process optimization. * Factory ...

SpaceX

Material Flow Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Understand critical part flow categories to develop specific plans that will allow Starbase to achieve significant scale. Use value stream mapping to ensure end-to-end process optimization. * Factory ...

SpaceX

Operations Engineer (Material Flow)

Hawthorne, CA

$110K - $135K/yr

Understand critical part flow categories to develop specific plans that will allow Starbase to achieve significant scale. Use value stream mapping to ensure end-to-end process optimization. * Factory ...

SpaceX

Material Flow Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Understand critical part flow categories to develop specific plans that will allow Starbase to achieve significant scale. Use value stream mapping to ensure end-to-end process optimization. * Factory ...

SpaceX

Material Flow Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

$110K - $135K/yr

Understand critical part flow categories to develop specific plans that will allow Starbase to achieve significant scale. Use value stream mapping to ensure end-to-end process optimization. * Factory ...

SpaceX

Sr. Mechanical Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SR. MECHANICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIP) Our elite Starbase team is ...

SpaceX

Sr. Mechanical Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SR. MECHANICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIP) Our elite Starbase team is ...

SpaceX

$26/hr

McGregor (Waco), TX; Redmond, WA; and Starbase, TX. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: * Must be enrolled in a bachelor's degree or graduate degree program by the start of employment * 3+ months experience in ...

SpaceX

Sr. Antenna Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA

$225K/yr

We support both the orbital starship vehicle (current development that can be observed in Starbase) as well as the HLS lunar missions for NASA Artemis. We own communications from the baseband (FPGA ...

SpaceX

Mechanical Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA

$110K - $135K/yr

Ability to travel to Starbase, TX (up to 25% travel may be required) COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Pay range: Level I: $100,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year Level II: $110,000.00 - $135,000.00/per year ...

SpaceX

Antenna Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

We support both the orbital starship vehicle (current development that can be observed in Starbase) as well as the HLS lunar missions for NASA Artemis. We own communications from the baseband (FPGA ...

SpaceX

$100K/yr

Starbase, TX and Vandenberg, CA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: * 6+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable) * Enrolled in a ...

SpaceX

$100K/yr

Starbase, TX and Vandenberg, CA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: * 6+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable) * Enrolled in a ...

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All JobsStarbase JobsStarbase Jobs in California

Starbase information

See California salary details

$10.8K

$48K

$59.2K

How much do starbase jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for starbase in California is $48,039.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,106.00 and $53,367.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do SpaceX jobs pay?

Pay for SpaceX jobs varies depending on the role, experience, and location, but generally ranges from around $50,000 to over $150,000 annually. Engineering, manufacturing, and technical positions tend to have higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and stock options. Entry-level roles may start lower, while specialized roles require relevant skills and certifications.

What is a Starbase job?

A Starbase job typically refers to a position at SpaceX's Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas, where the company develops and tests next-generation spacecraft and rockets. Jobs at Starbase range from engineering and manufacturing to construction and operations, supporting SpaceX's mission to build a sustainable presence in space. Employees at Starbase work on cutting-edge aerospace technologies, contributing to projects like Starship, which aims to enable interplanetary travel.

What are some common challenges faced by engineers working at a spaceport or starbase facility?

Engineers at spaceport or starbase facilities often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols, coordinating among multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring that ground support systems are ready for tight launch schedules. The work environment is dynamic and high-stakes, requiring quick problem-solving and adaptability. Collaboration with operations, mission control, and external partners is routine, and engineers must stay updated on the latest aerospace technologies and compliance standards.

Is it hard to get hired in SpaceX?

Getting hired as a Starbase employee at SpaceX can be competitive, often requiring relevant technical skills, experience in aerospace or engineering, and a strong understanding of the company's mission. Candidates typically go through a rigorous interview process that assesses technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit. Having certifications or experience with manufacturing, robotics, or software development can improve chances of employment.

What is the difference between Starbase vs Game Developer?

AspectStarbaseGame Developer
Required CredentialsTechnical skills, engineering background, certifications in software or hardwareProgramming skills, computer science degree, portfolio of games
Work EnvironmentGame studios, tech companies, collaborative teamsGame studios, independent or corporate environments
Industry UsageUsed in gaming, entertainment, and tech sectorsPrimarily in gaming, entertainment, and software development

Starbase and Game Developer roles share technical skills and industry overlap, but Starbase focuses on space simulation and engineering, while Game Developers concentrate on creating interactive entertainment. Both require programming and creative problem-solving, but their specific work environments and project types differ.

What is a Starbase?

A Starbase is a large, strategically important structure used in science fiction and space exploration contexts, most notably in franchises like Star Trek and in real-world applications such as SpaceX's launch facility in Boca Chica, Texas, also called Starbase. In fictional settings, Starbases serve as hubs for spacecraft repair, resupply, research, and administration. In the real world, SpaceX's Starbase is a private spaceport and production site dedicated to building and launching Starship rockets. These facilities are crucial for supporting deep space missions and advancing space technology.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as successful entrepreneurs, top-tier investment bankers, and certain specialized medical professionals like neurosurgeons. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve significant responsibility or ownership stakes.

How do I get hired at SpaceX?

To get hired at SpaceX, including roles like Starbase, candidates should review current job openings on the company's careers website, ensure they meet the required qualifications and experience, and submit a tailored application. Relevant skills often include engineering, manufacturing, or technical expertise, along with a strong interest in aerospace and space exploration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Starbase Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Starbase Engineer, you typically need a strong background in mechanical, electrical, or aerospace engineering, along with relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with CAD software, industrial control systems, and safety protocols is crucial for daily operations and problem-solving. Exceptional teamwork, attention to detail, and adaptability help you navigate complex projects and dynamic environments. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and successful operations in the demanding context of space launch facility management.
What are the most commonly searched types of Starbase jobs in California? The most popular types of Starbase jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Starbase jobs in California? For Starbase jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Starbase jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Starbase jobs in California are:
Starbase jobs near you
Infographic showing various Starbase job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,039 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Sr. Mechanical Engineer (Starship)

Sr. Mechanical Engineer (Starship)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$130K - $180K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 71 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SR. MECHANICAL ENGINEER (STARSHIP)

Our elite Starbase team is working on our planet's toughest and most audacious project: making humanity multi-planetary. The mechanical engineer is responsible for designing and building flight hardware such as propellant tanks, integration interfaces, primary structures, and structural subassemblies. You will be empowered to make real-time decisions, solve complex problems on the fly, and own end-to-end processes. The role will require the readiness to develop subject matter expertise in design for manufacturability, specifically those related to sheet metal and subassembly design and fabrication. If you are ready to be a hardware owner, eager to get out from behind a desk, and be hands-on working alongside a world-class production team, this may be the right role for you.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop design concepts from a clean sheet and size vehicle structures based on flight loads
  • Collaborate with peers from different vehicle systems to develop designs that balance mass, cost, and capability
  • Create detailed designs to implement structural concepts and generate CAD models in NX for components, assemblies, and vehicle integration
  • Build finite element models to assess your designs in detail and analyze your structures to prove they meet the needs of the vehicle
  • Apply first-order hand calculations and empirical formulas to assess and iterate on your designs rapidly
  • Validate your designs by building development articles to test individual joints and design elements for strength
  • Perform structural testing on subassemblies and full sections of the airframe
  • Partner with build engineers and technicians to improve your designs
  • Support the assembly of your hardware in the factory, witness your designs being brought to life daily, and watch them take flight and make history

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
  • 5+ years of experience with mechanical design and analysis 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience designing, analyzing, building, and testing high performance, mechanical systems
  • Experience working within interdisciplinary teams to develop solutions to challenging and complex problems
  • Experience with FEA or multiphysics simulation package (e.g. NASTRAN, ABAQUS, ANSYS)
  • Experience designing and executing qualification testing
  • Strong understanding of mechanical first principles and structural analysis methodologies
  • Proficiency in selecting materials and manufacturing methods for mechanical components
  • Analytical/scientific programming experience (i.e. Python, Matlab, Excel)
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary
  • Ability to travel to Starbase, TX (up to 25% travel may be required)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Senior: $130,000.00 - $180,000.00/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 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. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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