Build Specialist, Barrel Production (Starship)

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.

BUILD SPECIALIST, BARREL PRODUCTION (STARSHIP) 

The Build Specialist for Barrels and Domes Primary Structures focused on Root Cause, Escalations & Line Efficiency ensures quality, reliability, and efficient production of Starship’s core propellant tank structures. Through root-cause analysis, escalations ownership, and line optimization, the role enables the production rates and structural integrity needed for Starship’s high flight cadence. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead relentless, data-driven root cause analysis (5 Whys, fishbone, Pareto, etc.) on complex equipment failures, quality defects, process variability, and unplanned downtime; implement permanent countermeasures, poka-yoke solutions, and preventive/predictive strategies to eliminate repeat problems

• Own engineering escalations end-to-end: triage issues, coordinate with design/manufacturing/build reliability engineers, drive rapid resolution, verify fixes at the gemba, and document thoroughly for full traceability and compliance

• Drive day-to-day waste reduction and line efficiency on flexible barrel lines—optimize workflow, part flow, mixed-product sequencing, workstation layout, and material presentation to cut non-value-added time and improve throughput

• Troubleshoot complex equipment and tooling issues, support repairs, and manage model/tooling changes to minimize disruption

• Conduct quality inspections, enforce process standards, escalate non-conformances immediately, and mentor technicians on best practices and standard work

• Drive continuous improvement and 5S: update work instructions, standardize best practices to close skill gaps and accelerate knowledge transfer, and implement workstation/process optimizations

• Support assembly process updates, new equipment integration, and seamless cross-shift/cross-department coordination

• Partner with engineering to improve utilization efficiency—provide clear feedback, data, and recommendations that reduce rework loops and strengthen the production-engineering partnership

• Verify safety, compliance, and process integrity on the floor; ensure every fix is robust and sustainable

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate and 2+ years of professional experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment; OR Bachelor's degree in an engineering, math, or science discipline

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate or bachelor's degree in an engineering, math, or science discipline

• 2+ years in a manufacturing, process planning, or continuous improvement role with strong root-cause ownership

• 2+ years of professional experience in an aerospace, aviation, automotive, and/or manufacturing enviro