Sr. Crane Engineer (Starship)
SpaceX
kopernik shores, tx, usa
Posted on Nov 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.
SR. CRANE ENGINEER (STARSHIP)
The Starship team is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Sr. Crane Engineer to join our team. You will be responsible for the operations and maintenance of various types of cranes used in industrial, construction, and manufacturing settings. You should possess strong technical expertise in structural engineering, mechanical engineering, and crane operations. The role requires the ability to work on complex engineering projects, provide technical guidance, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Troubleshooting and maintenance: Investigate and resolve technical issues related to crane operation and maintenance, and provide recommendations for improvements.
- Continuous improvement: Identify opportunities for innovation and improvement in crane design, operation, and maintenance processes.
- Product testing: Plan and conduct testing and validation of new crane designs and modifications to ensure compliance with safety and performance standards.
- Technical support: Provide technical expertise and guidance to internal and external stakeholders on crane design, operation, and maintenance.
- Project management: Lead or contribute to crane engineering projects from concept to completion, ensuring adherence to budget and schedule.
- Compliance and standards: Stay informed about industry standards, codes, and regulations related to cranes and ensure that designs and operations comply with relevant requirements.
- Documentation: Prepare technical reports, specifications, and documentation related to crane design, testing, and maintenance activities.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field.
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, structural engineering, or other engineering discipline.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- 3+ years of experience with bridge cranes.
- Proven experience in the design and analysis of bridge cranes.
- Proven Experience with automation and controls.
- Strong knowledge of structural analysis, material properties, and mechanical principles related to crane design and operation.
- Familiarity with relevant industry standards such as ASME B30.2, OSHA regulations, and other applicable codes and standards.
- Proficiency in engineering software for structural analysis, such as CAD, FEA, and other relevant tools.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to interact with stakeholders at all levels.
- Prior experience in project management and leading engineering teams is desirable.
- Strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement in crane engineering practices.
ADDITIONAL REQUIERMENTS
- Schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required.
- Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.
- Stand: Up to 6 hours per day.
- Sit: Up to 3 hours per day.
- Push/Pull: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) 1 to 2 hours per day.
- Overhead reach: Up to 1 hour per day.
- Walk: Up to 3 hours per day.
- Lift/Carry: Up to 25lbs. (unassisted) 1 to 2 hours per day.
- Climb (ladder/stairs): up to 3 hours per day.
- Kneel/Crouch: up to 3 hours per day.
- Upper body twist: Up to 3 hours per day.
- Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees: up to 3 hours per day.
- Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, using an air purifying respirator, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description. Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review.
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.