Apprentice Welder

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.

We are currently seeking an apprentice welder to join our Texas Test Site. This position requires specialized trade skills to meet welding requirements and operational needs. The position is responsible for performing the duties of an apprentice welder and the weld support team (plasma programming/operation, saw operation, material movement in and around the shop, and cross‑training across these functions).

• Perform tasks such as plasma table programming, operating a band saw, chop saw, and manually drilling or milling materials
• Analyze engineering drawings to determine dimensions and tolerances of cut parts
• Obtain and maintain licenses, operator permits, or certifications as required
• Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly
• Work with leaders to complete the assignment/project, solve problems, meet deadlines, and review issues for consistent improvement
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, to ensure an efficient and effective work environment

• Associate’s degree or certification from a 2-year technical school
• 2+ years of experience (experience from a college welding program qualifies) in two of the following processes:
  Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding/stick welding (SMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding/TIG welding (GTAW), or Gas Metal Arc Welding/MIG welding (GMAW)

• 1+ years of experience with plasma table programming/operating
• Ability to use measuring instruments of all types
• Experience working in cutting or machining operations
• Experience in a high-mix, low-volume (job shop) manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the trade
• Ability to rapidly change focus while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

• Ability to stand, kneel, crouch, climb, twist the upper body, and work in confined spaces
• Ability to stand for extended periods (8 hours minimum)
• Ability to lift heavy objects up to 45 lbs. unassisted
• Ability to work at heights up to 300 feet with proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Ability to respond to emergencies to support priority projects, missions, and launches
• Available to work extended hours and weekends depending on site operational needs
• Ability to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, wind, rain, etc.
• Work performed in an environment exposed to fumes, odors, sparks, and noise
• Must be willing to travel nationally for up to four weeks – travel will be less than 15%

• 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 here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Aff…? Actually the email: