Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad)

spacex· Tower and Launch Mount Technicians
Apply Now ↗
📍 Starbase, TX

About this role

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.

BUILD SPECIALIST, AUTOMATION & CONTROLS (STARSHIP LAUNCH PAD) 

The Starship Tower & Launch Mount team is looking for controls build specialists to help make the next generation of launch pads a reality. This role will be focused on bridging the gap between detailed design and activations – that is, developing planning for installing conveyances and pulling cables, building up a healthy supply chain of commonly used parts, assisting in the field as needed, and feeding back lessons learned from the build to the design team. The systems the group is developing are intended to interface with the next generation of Starship vehicles, catch both stages, and enable a rapid and automated flight cadence requiring no manual actions between launches. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Create work instructions for integration of electrical and controls systems as well as their related secondary structures
  • Identify and escalate tricky designs that lead to manufacturing difficulties, and propose solutions for improving the process
  • Provide production support: rapidly disposition issue tickets, work with engineers to define requirements and standard repairs
  • Troubleshoot electrical and controls systems
  • Select, modify, and maintain equipment needed to perform tests and fabrication projects
  • Onboard new machinery or equipment to increase the efficiency of builds
  • Document build processes
  • Pursue initiatives to streamline the process of going from a design to completed hardware in the field including the areas of supply chain, planning generation, communication with technicians, test plans, tooling, checkouts, and data review 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 2+ years of experience in mechanical, fluid, or electrical disciplines 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • Proficiency in writing and interpreting planning documents, schematics, wiring diagrams, specifications, drawings, manuals, blueprints, and engineering sketches
  • Ability to install and use instrumentation including strain gages, pressure transducers, load cells, thermocouples, RTDs, accelerometers, and analog circuitry
  • Ability to fabricate and repair cable harnesses including: soldering, crimping, assembling connectors
  • Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
  • Ability to solve complex problems with minimal supervision on tight schedules 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
  • Ability to work at elevated heights up to 500 feet 
  • Stand: Up to 10 hours per day
  • Sit: Up to 6 hours per day
  • Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day
  • Overhead reach: Up to 6 hours per day
  • Walk: Up to 10 hours per day
  • Lift/Carry: Up to ≤ 50 lbs. (unassisted) 15 minutes or less per day
  • Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 10 hours per day
  • Kneel/Crouch: Up to 3 hours per day
  • Upper body twist: Up to 3 hours per day
  • Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 6 hours or greater per day
  • Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, using an air purifying respirator, operating heavy equipment and machinery, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description
  • Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review

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 EEOCompliance@spacex.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the salary disclosed for the Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) position at spacex?
The salary for this Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) role at spacex is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) position at spacex located?
This Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) role at spacex is based in Starbase, TX. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Which team or department does the Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) at spacex belong to?
This Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) position is part of the Tower and Launch Mount Technicians department at spacex. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) position at spacex?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to spacex's official application portal hosted on greenhouse where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) job at spacex posted?
This Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad) position at spacex was posted on Dec 26, 2025. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Build Specialist, Automation & Controls (Starship Launch Pad)
spacex
Apply for this role ↗

You'll be redirected to spacex's official application page on Greenhouse.