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.
PARACHUTE RIGGER & QUALITY SPECIALIST
This role is critical to Americas Human Spaceflight Program, helping to pack parachutes for the vehicle that will take astronauts to and from the international space station and beyond. They will also assist in review of the quality and conformance of the input components and subassemblies as well as assist in the rigging of future parachute systems within SpaceX. This role will have a close feedback loop with engineering, production and the greater SpaceX team in our pursuit and relentless drive to making the road to and from space as safe and reliable as possible
- Fold, rig, and pack parachutes and other specialized soft-goods for human spaceflight in accordance to SpaceX policies and procedures
- Support development of new packing/rigging procedures for new development projects
- Support continuous improvement of work instructions and procedures
- Perform build reviews and drive improvements to product quality and reliability
- Perform in-process inspections, final inspections, and post-flight inspections of parachutes and other soft goods, identifying and documenting non-conformances according to SpaceX policies and procedures
- Validate incoming received parts and materials to approved drawings and specification standards. Create record of quality review
- Maintain and promote a quality culture within the organization
- Manage calibrated equipment and testing equipment, including coordinating on-time re-calibration
- Conduct strength and performance testing of components on specialized equipment
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 2+ years of inspection or technician experience in an aerospace, military, or manufacturing environment
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Strong communication skills (written and oral)
- Senior Riggers License - FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) or military equivalent
- Experience with parachute systems (large or cargo canopies preferred, and/or pressure packing canopies)
- FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) airframe and powerplant (A&P) certificate
- Experience with textiles (cords, webbing, and tapes; broadcloths; thread)
- Experience in quality department or through quality training
- Knowledge of quality assurance principles, methods, and processes
- Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, an understanding for drawing symbols, flag notes and general notes
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, read travelers and standard operating procedures
- Attention to detail and accuracy while working within a fast-paced production environment
- Intermediate level skill with Windows operations systems and Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)
- Experience with hand tools, hydraulic equipment, ovens and tensile testing machines
- Strong understanding of safety programs and OSHA regulations and requirements
- Practical experience working within quality management systems (AS9100 and ISO 9001)
- Proficiency in other languages (Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese)
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends/holidays as necessary
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 25lbs unassisted
- Standing for long periods of time, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching are generally required to perform the functions of this position
- Must be able to travel to remote sites as needed
- Ability to pass Space Force background check for Cape Canaveral
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
- 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 Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliancespacex.com.
