Tube Bender (Starship) - Level 4/5
SpaceX
kopernik shores, tx, usa
Posted on Oct 8, 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.
TUBE BENDER (STARSHIP) - LEVEL 4/5
Candidates should possess a combination of expert mechanical knowledge, extensive hands-on experience, leadership in high-pressure environments, and the willingness and ability to learn. As a senior tube bender on the SpaceX sheet metal technician team, you will spearhead the fabrication of complex, precision tube assemblies critical to the Starship vehicle. You will mentor junior technicians, optimize processes for scalability, and ensure compliance with aerospace standards while driving continuous improvement.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead and coordinate all tube bending operations across teams, including tube prep, flaring, CNC bending, inspection, cleaning, and integration with downstream processes like orbital tube welding (OTW)
- Oversee setup, operation, and troubleshooting of advanced tube-bending equipment, ensuring adherence to ultra-tight tolerances and high-volume production demands
- Work closely with engineering to prove out designs to blueprint with minimum fixtures and short schedules.
- Solve tube fitment issues and document changes for further development work
- Mentor and train technicians on best practices, safety protocols, and advanced techniques; foster a culture of excellence
- Develop and manage actions to improve both quality and productivity
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Experience working with thin-walled tubing
- Experience working with Inconel, titanium, aluminum, nickel, and stainless steel
- Experience operating and maintaining CNC bending machines and control systems – preferably Crippa, BLM and/or Horn bending machines
- Experience programming and troubleshooting CNC bending machines
- Ability to describe and navigate through a machine’s functions, root cause recurrent issues, and identify the cross-referenced parts needed for repairs
- Previous training in lean/continuous improvement tools
- Ability to set up and operate tube fabrication equipment
- Ability to interpret blueprints and articulate work instructions
- Knowledge of tube cleaning requirements for aerospace
- Knowledge of orbital tube welding (OTW)
- Experience with manual tubing benders
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed
- Must be able to work overtime and weekends as business needs dictate
- Must be able to lift a min. of 25 lbs. unassisted
- Must be able to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum
- Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces
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.