SpaceX
SpaceX

Production Supervisor - Vehicle Structures (Friction Stir Welding)

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.

Production Supervisor - Vehicle Structures (Friction Stir Welding)

OVERVIEW:

The Friction Stir Welding (FSW) work centers are responsible for all of the steps necessary to manufacture integrated barrels’ sections of the rocket from flat sheets of aluminum. This Supervisor candidate should have an excellent technical understanding of complex assemblies, as well as the capability to thoroughly understand the FSW process. Some of the main responsibilities include maintaining and troubleshooting the FSW machines in order to ensure the meeting of the production schedule. With responsibility for a team of approx. 10-20 technicians, daily interfaces with a network of Engineering partners and subject experts means interpersonal skill are a clear necessity, as is the ability to coach, guide, steer and drive the team to success. Experience of modern manufacturing techniques and Continuous Improvement Project implementation are also preferable.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Work with Technicians to set up tooling, weld schedules and friction stir weld large structural cylinders.
  • Work with Engineering on tool setup and machine optimization.
  • Develop and run test plates for various material types, sizes, and configurations.
  • Coordinate work within Friction Stir Welding and work with various support groups to ensure timely delivery.
  • Work with engineering to champion manufacturing excellence and continuously improve production system performance.
  • Effectively manage an overall staff of 10+ technicians.
  • Manage schedule and work load according to needs.
  • Responsible for employee performance reviews.
  • Responsible of maintenance of the machine and making efficiency changes to the production process.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must have a bachelor’s degree in a technical field or 5 years of experience related to welding.
  • Experience with structures or mechanical assemblies/subassemblies.
  • Minimum of 2 years in a leadership position.
  • Experience applying lean manufacturing principles and efficiency methods.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s degree in an engineering desired.
  • Familiar with reading a process failure mode effect analysis (PFMEA).
  • Experience with aerospace coatings and sealants.
  • 5 years of experience with Friction Stir Welding.
  • 5 years of aerospace experience.
  • Experience building and maintaining a schedule.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office.
  • Ability to effectively communicate (verbal and written) with Engineering and Production.
  • Able to adapt to constant changing work assignments and fast paced work environment.
  • Familiar with machine controls.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must demonstrate some physical dexterity in order to correctly set up tooling and hardware.
  • Able to climb ladders and stairs and work in small restricted areas.
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time. At least 8 hours.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Able to pass Pulmonary Function Test to obtain respirator certification.
  • Must be available to work extended hours, all shifts, and weekends as needed.
  • Valid Driver’s License required.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

  • To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about 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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.

SpaceX builds advanced rockets and spacecraft with the aim of making human life multiplanetary, particularly focusing on establishing a sustainable presence on Mars. Its innovative technologies and ambitious missions cater to space enthusiasts, researchers, and industries looking to push the boundaries of space exploration.

Founded
Founded 2002
Employees
500+ employees
Industry
aviation & aerospace
Total raised
$13B raised
Last funding
Raised April 2026
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