> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2854241-ground-system-engineering](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2854241-ground-system-engineering). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # ground system engineering - **Company:** Space Exploration Technologies Corp. - **Location:** Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA, United States - **Salary:** $100,000.0 - $130,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Excel, Computer-Aided Design, Abaqus, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Python (Programming Language), MATLAB, Nastran (Computer-Aided Design Software), Enterprise Software Applications, Ansys, Teamcenter (Software) - **Published:** September 11, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.thejobnetwork.com/job/ad23bd87-20e4-4cdf-bf83-98e61d173920/launch-engineer-ground-support-equipment-falcon ## About the Role - Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline - 1+ years of hands-on hardware experience performing fabrication, assembly and/or testing **PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:** - Experience with NX/Teamcenter designing parts and assemblies - Experience with CAD and FEA software packages (can be in a professional, academic, entrepreneurial, or hobby setting) - Experience with at least one commercial FEA or multiphysics simulation package (NASTRAN, ABAQUS, ANSYS, CFD codes, etc.) - Demonstrated ability to own hardware or systems within an integrated engineering team outside a classroom setting (FSAE, Engineers without Borders, Design-Build-Fly, NASA student launch, personal entrepreneurial ventures, etc.) - Analytical/scientific programming experience (Python, MATLAB, Excel, etc.) - Hands-on experience working with, troubleshooting, and/or designing complex fluid systems that involve pressure vessels, filters, pressure relief valves, manual valves, regulators, and gauges. - Demonstrated expertise in the design, build, and operation of systems per any of the following: - Fluids -ASME B31.3, ASME B&PV Code Section VIII - Mechanical: AFSPCMAN 91-710, ASME B30, ASME BTH-1, NASA-STD-5005 - Excellent written and oral communication, especially translating technical concepts for non-technical audiences - General hands-on mechanical experience: welding, automotive, robotics, rocketry, etc. - Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere - Unfazed by change in strategic direction **ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:** - Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA - Physical effort including standing, lifting and carrying moderately heavy materials or equipment (15 to 30 lbs.) - Overall mental fitness with the ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment requiring prolonged mental concentration (under possible extended work hours) - Ability to be flexible on shifts ## Description - Design, build, and activate equipment to support all aspects of launch site vehicle processing and launch, including structural, tooling/fixtures, fluids, and transport equipment - This team supports Stage 1, Stage 2, Fairing, launch site payload operations, from Dockside to Launch, with a focus on vehicle interface tooling for structural and fluid connections - This team also supports every flight inspection, refurbishment operations for all the umbilicals for pad operations - Use hand calculations, finite element analyses (FEA), and computer-aided designs (CAD) to ensure all hardware meets or exceeds internal and customer requirements - Lead design reviews and activation testing - Serve as a technical interface to customers and suppliers - Monitor and participate in ground system build and test, hands-on in the field, alongside skilled technician teams - Collaborate with engineers and technicians when performing critical operations on non-flight hardware including mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems - Perform continuing engineering and production support of ground support equipment to support a 99%+ uptime to support flight hardware integration activities ## Related Videos - [Robots are coming into the wild! 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