Welding Trainee (Starship) – Temporary

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.

WELDING TRAINEE (STARSHIP) - TEMPORARY

Welders in this temporary position will participate in an accelerated training program at the SpaceX South Texas build site, preparing to qualify for welding on the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles through intensive hands-on instruction and certification. Under the mentorship of seasoned experts, trainees will simulate and progressively master the fabrication of the primary airframe, including cylindrical tanks, bulkheads, and large associated structures, building the precision skills needed for flight-ready hardware. Upon successful qualification, participants will join an elite team to rapidly execute these fabrication tasks, advancing the production of groundbreaking multiplanetary vehicles.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

GTAW class A welds; cut, trim, fit and fabricate metal components to dimensions for building and assembling

Collaborate with lead welder to ensure that the proper weld procedure, type of material and rod size are accurately assessed for each welding project

Analyze engineering drawings and specifications to plan welding operations where procedural information is unavailable

Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly

Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment

Weld assembly and fabrication of various small to large scale structures and assemblies

Effectively communicate with management/supervisors, engineering staff and planners to achieve build efficiency

Modify repair, assemble, and install launch vehicles

Check work after completion of each operation in job and/or completed job to ensure it is complete per drawing

Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in approved manner

Install and assemble custom and off-the-shelf tooling and machinery for building primary tank structure

Setup of safety equipment and work platforms at elevation

Operate general shop equipment and vehicles (forklifts, boom lifts, scissor lifts, etc.)

POSITION DETAILS:

This is a temporary position with SpaceX for the duration stated, subject to change with minimal notice based on business needs. Temporary employees who successfully complete the assignment may be eligible for conversion to full-time roles.

LENGTH OF POSITION: 1 month

LOCATION: Brownsville, TX

SHIFT: Must be available for all shifts (day shift, 6 AM - 6 PM or night shift, 6 PM - 6 AM), overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

1+ month of experience welding or certificate of completion for welding from an accredited program within the last 2 years

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

3+ years of experience in TIG welding with one or more of the following materials: stainless steel, carbon steel, Inconel, aluminum and titanium

Highly proficient in tube cutting, grinding and fabrication

Highly experience in class A welds

Certifications with AWS D17.1 and D1.2

Knowledge in DC welding techniques, and engineering requirements

Knowledge in standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade

Knowledge in occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the trade

Knowledge in arc air procedures and equipment

Experience in overhead cranes and forklifts

Use of precision measuring instruments

Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Role requires passing a weld test per AWS D17.1

Must be available for all shifts (day shift, 6 AM - 6 PM or night shift, 6 PM - 6 AM), overtime and weekends as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required

Ability to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum

Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 25 lbs) unassisted

Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings and climbing hand over hand

Ability to work at elevated heights (up to 200 feet) and in confined spaces

Typically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain

Work performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise

Stand: Up to 10 hours per day

Sit: Up to 1 hour per day

Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) 30 minutes to 1 hour per day

Overhead reach: Up to 6 hours per day

Walk: Up to 6 hours per day

Lift/Carry: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day

Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 3 hours per day

Kneel/Crouch: Up to 6 hours per day

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