Launch & Test Engineer, Fluids (Starship)

Cape Canaveral, FL · 1+ years experience · Posted Sep 24, 2026

At a glance

Design, build, activate, modify, improve, and maintain the fluid and mechanical systems that launch the Starship rocket.
Develop clever solutions to meet the needs of a demanding launch and test program in a development-focused environment.

Analyze, design, and build systems that support critical rocket launches and testing
Cradle-to-grave project ownership through hosting design reviews, project decision justification, equipment procurement, and coordination and assistance of the construction of your ideas
Design modular hardware capable of being manufactured at volume for future launch sites across the world
Apply interdisciplinary engineering skills in fields of system-level process design and initial sizing, detailed pressurized fluid and thermal analysis, structural engineering, materials and component selection and cost/schedule optimization
Work directly with technicians and support groups to build your designs, and fix real-world problems on the fly
Maintain a tight feedback loop with the launch operations team to rapidly alter plans as necessary to meet tight deadlines
Activate and troubleshoot equipment to achieve design objectives and iterate system maintenance strategies to reduce future downtime
Hands-on approach to tackling daily field projects necessary to keep the company launching rockets

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other engineering discipline
1+ years of hands-on build or design experience (internship, club, and competition team experience qualifies)
Ability to respond to emergencies to support priority projects, missions, and launches
Ability to pass Air Force background check for Cape Canaveral
Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed; flexibility is required
Ability to work in extreme outdoor environments when needed – heat, cold, wind, rain, etc.
Ability to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
Working conditions may be in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required
Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings, and climbing hand over hand
Ability to lift heavy objects up to 25 lbs. unassisted

General hands-on experience; machining, welding, and other fabrication techniques is a plus
NX a plus
Experience in FEA or CFD is a plus