Plasma Cutting System Programmer
SpaceX
Software Engineering
Texas, USA
Posted on Aug 1, 2025
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.
PLASMA CUTTING SYSTEM PROGRAMMER
Work as part of a fabrication team of elite individuals building and improving the mechanical systems at our rocket launch facilities. Be there on the ground floor, getting your hands dirty and contributing directly to the success of future launches. The ideal candidate will operate, maintain, and repair computer numerical control (CNC) controlled plasma cutting systems.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Program and operate a plasma cutter
- Program and set up using proper gases and cutting tips
- Generate multiple part nestings and print layouts
- Troubleshoot program, offset, and condition settings and adjust corrections
- Work in accordance with established safety rules and good housekeeping practices
- Work on additional equipment or tasks outside the job description as directed by the floor supervisor for production needs or continuous improvement
- Perform weekly, monthly, and quarterly maintenance on equipment
- Report inventory levels to the supervisor to keep an adequate stock of consumables and gases
- Accurately record time and production numbers daily and report scrap
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 6+ years of experience programming or operating a CNC-controlled plasma cutting system
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Experience using Hypertherm Automation EDGE CNC controller and the full Hypertherm suite: True Hole, True Bevel, Rapid Part, Nesting, Pro-Nest 2023 software, and Collision Avoidance
- Experience with NX/Teamcenter or MasterCam
- Experience with flame cutting with a conventional oxyfuel torch
- Able to navigate documentation from production records and databases
- Able to identify material types and thickness as associated with work orders
- Able to problem-solve cut quality issues
- Experience programming 5-axis bevel heads
- Able to read and interpret blueprints and understand part tolerances per print specification
- Experience with .DXF, .DWG and various print file types
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Valid driver’s license
- Must be able to drive a forklift and safely handle materials
- The ability to lift heavy objects is required in this position (up to 25lbs unassisted)
- Must be able to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain, etc.
- Must be able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
- Must be available for overtime and weekends depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required
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.