Structural Welder (Tooling Operations)
SpaceX
Operations
kopernik shores, tx, usa
Posted on Feb 24, 2026
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.
STRUCTURAL WELDER (TOOLING OPERATIONS)
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- FCAW and SMAW welding; cut, trim, fit, and fabricate metal components to dimensions for building and assembling
- Collaborate with lead welder to ensure that the proper weld procedure, type of material, and rod size are accurately assessed for each welding project
- Analyze engineering drawings and specifications to plan welding operations where procedural information is unavailable
- Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly
- Perform other related duties, as assigned, to ensure an efficient and effective work environment
- Weld assembly and fabrication of various small to large-scale structures and assemblies
- Effectively communicate with management/supervisors, engineering staff, and planners to achieve build efficiency
- Check work after completion of each operation in the job and/or completed job to ensure it is complete per drawing
- Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in an approved manner
- Install and assemble custom and off-the-shelf tooling
- Setup of safety equipment and work platforms at elevation
- Operate general shop equipment and vehicles (forklifts, boom lifts, scissor lifts, etc.)
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- 1+ years of experience with FCAW and SMAW welding
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- 5+ years of experience with FCAW and SMAW welding with one or more of the following materials: stainless steel, carbon steel, Inconel, aluminum and titanium
- Highly proficient in tube cutting, grinding and fabrication
- Highly experience in Class A welds
- Certifications with AWS D17.1 and D1.2
- Experience with DC welding techniques, and engineering requirements
- Experience working with standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade
- Knowledge in occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the trade
- Knowledge in arc air procedures and equipment
- Experience operating overhead cranes and forklifts
- Experience using precision measuring instruments
- Basic computer skills
- Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to work one of the following shifts:
- Monday- Friday (6:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.)
- Monday -Friday (6:00 p.m. – 6:30 a.m.)
- Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary
- Stand: Up to 10 hours per day
- Sit: Up to 3 hours per day
- Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) 2 hours or longer per day
- Overhead reach: Up to 3 hours per day
- Walk: Up to 3 hours per day
- Lift/Carry: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) 2 hours or longer per day
- Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 3 hours per day
- Kneel/Crouch: Up to 6 hours per day
- Upper body twist: Up to 6 hours per day
- Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 6 hours or greater per day
- Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), operating heavy equipment and machinery, 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.