NDE Inspector Trainee (Starship)
SpaceX
kopernik shores, tx, usa
Posted on Sep 27, 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.
NDE INSPECTOR TRAINEE (STARSHIP)
An NDE Inspector trainee position at SpaceX sits within the NDE Operations team. The purpose of this role is to train effectively and quickly to become qualified and certified across needed NDE applications. A successful individual in this role is studious, autonomous, and motivated to start a career within nondestructive evaluation.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Studiously train with multiple NDE Inspectors to gain on-the-job training (OJT)
- Leverage OJT and self-study to effectively prepare for and pass certification examinations and practical tests
- Become certified in necessary and assigned NDE methods
- Perform NDE inspections with the applicable NDE methods
- Interpret, evaluate, communicate, and report findings to production and engineering teams
- Interpret and review engineering drawings as required
- Support the development of NDE inspection techniques for complex geometries
- Support research and development of future NDE technology for operational improvements
- Assist in training and developing others within the team
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- Completion of a comprehensive nondestructive evaluation training program; OR 1+ years of experience at SpaceX AND is graded as a level 3 welder or higher
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- 2+ years of professional welding experience
- Certificate of completion in two or more of the following NDE methods from an NDE training program or school: Liquid penetrant (PT) or visual inspection (VT) in line with ASNT-TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidance
- Nondestructive evaluation level I certification in line with ASNT TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidance in one of the following methods: Eddy current (ET), radiography (RT), digital radiography (DR), dye penetrant (PT), visual inspection (VT), computed radiography (CR), phase array (PAUT), ultrasonic (UT), ultrasonic shear wave (UTSW), or magnetic particle (MT)
- Operational experience using one of the listed NDE methods for the inspection of weldments
- Basic computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft applications, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel
- Knowledge of AMS, AWS/ASME, ASTM
- Experience with problem solving tools and techniques: practical problem solving (PPS), Eight Disciples (8D)
- Basic understanding of lean principles: 5S, Kaizen, continuous improvement initiatives
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be able to lift 25 lbs. unassisted
- Must be able to bend, stretch, stand for extended periods of time, climb stairs, reach, and twist
- Ability to enter and work in confined spaces
- Must be willing to work overtime and on weekends if needed to meet production and launch schedule
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.