Parachute Rigger & Quality Specialist (Starfall)

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Fold, rig, and pack parachutes for both human and cargo spaceflight in accordance with SpaceX policies and procedures
• Support development of new packing/rigging procedures for new 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
• Inspection methods include visual inspection and use of scales and micrometers
• Validate incoming parts and materials to approved drawings and specification standards. Create record of the quality review
• Maintain and promote a quality culture within the organization
• Manage calibrated equipment and testing equipment, including coordinating on-time re-calibration
• BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
• 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)
• Experience with textiles (cord, webbing, tape, broadcloth, and thread) and the ability to interpret technical drawings
• Experience in a quality department or in quality training
• Experience with high-consequence, meticulous procedural work (e.g., FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate or similar)
• Knowledge of quality assurance principles, methods, and processes
• Experience with high-resolution inspection photography
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)
• Experience with hydraulic equipment, ovens, hand tools, and tension testing
• Proficiency in other languages (Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese)
• ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Must be able to work long hours (10+) and weekends/holidays as necessary
• Must be able to stand for extended periods - 8 hours minimum
• Must be willing to work all shifts and overtime as needed.
• Must be able to travel to remote sites if required.
• Able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. unassisted
• Ability to pass Space Force and Air Force background checks to support travel to Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
• 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.