Launch Operations Specialist
SpaceX
Operations
Vandenberg Village, CA, USA
USD 33-52.75 / hour + Equity
Posted on Dec 10, 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.
LAUNCH OPERATIONS SPECIALIST
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Serve as the primary ground controller during launch pad preparations for various launch pad fluid, mechanical, and electrical systems for launch
- Assist in troubleshooting, disposition, and functional checkouts of launch pad components to determine suitability for launch
- Work with engineers to improve the processes, procedures, and automation to allow for safer, more reliable, and more efficient launch pad operations
- Assist in developing and maintaining high quality training plans for all facets of launch operations, control systems, and automation
- Ensure pad operations are on schedule, all testing and verifications have been completed, and outstanding issues have been resolved and/or communicated to the various teams supporting Launch Operations
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 3+ years of professional experience building, operating, or testing high pressure systems
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- 3+ years of experience with a hands-on role within a launch pad environment
- 1+ years of experience working on a launch pad and familiarity with support systems including high pressure gas, cryogenics, hydraulics, and electrical systems
- Computer literacy with an understanding of the Microsoft suite, automation tools, ERP administration, etc.
- Demonstrated history of strong mechanical aptitude
- Ability to read and understand technical manuals and reports
- Ability to read and understand mechanical and electrical schematics
- Intuitive understanding of the use and limitations of instrumentation and control components (pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoid valves)
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg
- Ability to work all shifts, overtime and weekends as needed
- Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position
- Ability to work at elevated heights (scissor lifts, articulated boom lifts, and launch platforms)
- Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
- Occasionally exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments (heat, cold, rain)
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Launch Operations Specialist/Level 1: $33.00 - $41.75/hour
Launch Operations Specialist/Level 2: $37.50 - $47.25/hour
Launch Operations Specialist/Level 3: $41.75 - $52.75/hour
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.
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.