Launch Quality Inspector - 2nd Shift

SpaceX
Vandenberg, US
On-site

Job Description

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 QUALITY INSPECTOR - 2ND SHIFT

SpaceX quality inspectors are the last line of defense in assuring mission success. You will perform in-process inspections and verify that all key performance and design characteristics are met or exceeded during test preparation and acceptance testing. You will be working with the most cutting-edge rocket technology while making history. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Perform inspections (in-process and final) on structural and propulsion components and subassemblies (mechanical, electrical, electro- mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic)

Inspect, verify, and proactively support structures and propulsion development and acceptance testing; assure adherence to design, specification, and testing requirements  

Document production and test anomalies in accordance with prescribed procedures and process as required  

Communicate and help resolve quality related issues as they relate to the site and other SpaceX locations

Process non-conforming product  

Routinely observe technical operations and offer guidance and/or serve as an additional technical resource  

Determine manufacturing compliance to NASA and customer, as well as internal, specifications to meet launch and mission requirements 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

2+ years of inspection experience in an aerospace, military, or manufacturing environment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Associate degree or higher in quality, engineering, or related field 

FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) airframe and powerplant (A&P) certificate

Knowledge of quality assurance principles, methods, and processes 

Knowledge of avionics and electrical systems 

Knowledge of aerospace propulsion and principles 

Knowledge of aerospace structures 

Knowledge of GSE (ground support engineering/equipment) systems and general associated equipment 

Strong knowledge and experience in aerospace standards and its general practices 

Intermediate level skill with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook) 

Intermediate level skill with Windows operating systems

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to work one of the following shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed:

Weekday 2nd shift: Monday - Friday from 5:00 PM - 3:30 AM

Weekend 2nd shift: Friday - Monday from 5:00 PM - 5:00 AM

Ability to pass Space Force / Air Force background check for Vandenberg and Cape Canaveral 

Ability to climb ladders and work in tight spaces  

Willing to work overtime to meet critical deadlines as needed  

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:    

Launch Quality Inspector/Level 1: $26.00 - $34.00/hour    

Launch Quality Inspector/Level 2: $30.75 - $40.75/hour    

Launch Quality Inspector/Level 3: $36.25 - $47.25/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 & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & 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. 

Skills & Requirements

Technical Skills

InspectionQuality assuranceAerospaceManufacturingTechnical operationsMicrosoft officeWindows operating systemsCommunicationProblem-solvingTeamworkAttention to detailAdaptabilityLeadershipFaa airframe and powerplant (a&p) certificateAerospaceManufacturing

Soft Skills

CommunicationProblem-solvingProactive approachGuidance

Domain Knowledge

Quality controlAerospaceInspection

Certifications

FAA airframe and powerplant (A&P) certificate

Employment Type

FULL TIME

Level

junior

Posted

4/7/2026

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