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Sr. Manager, Launch Fabrication (Starship)

SpaceX· Launch Fabrication Technicians - Starbase
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Starbase, TXFull-timePosted 2mo ago

About the role

Lead the Starbase Launch Fabrication organization supporting Starship Launch and Test operations, overseeing multi-shift fabrication across welding, material prep, machine shop, and related work centers; partner with engineering, program, supply chain, quality, and pad/test to hit launch milestones.

Responsibilities

  • Own overall performance of the Starbase Launch Fabrication organization: safety, quality, schedule, cost, and capacity, to meet hardware commitments for Starship launch and test milestones
  • Lead multi-shift fabrication operations across pipe welding, structural welding, material prep, machine shop, corrosion control, and related work centers; set priorities across ST-15, Sanchez, and satellite shops as demand and space require
  • Build and lead a leadership bench of managers, supervisors, superintendents, and leads; hire, promote, and develop talent with performance management
  • Scale production control (planning, scheduling, WIP/work-order management, customer interface) for capacity- and demand-driven shop allocation
  • Drive headcount strategy including FTE vs. contractor mix, night-shift leadership coverage, and ramp plans
  • Own high-level resource and facility plans for throughput, including shop layout, tool/equipment capability, multi-site builds, and capital/lease actions
  • Partner daily with engineering, program, pad/test ops, quality, materials, and logistics to lock demand signals and communicate progress, risks, and recovery plans
  • Develop and maintain a strong safety culture; training, EHS partnership, cleanliness/workmanship standards, and operational risk management
  • Own quality outcomes for fabrication deliverables; drive reductions in escapes/workmanship issues; support inspection strategy for remote build areas and volumetric NDE as required
  • Estimate and commit major builds (hours, space, staffing, timeline); refine estimates with technical leads and hold plans
  • Apply continuous improvement and data (clocking, capacity, schedule adherence, labor efficiency) to reduce build time and raise capability
  • Escalate high-impact operational and project risks early; remove blockers and implement sustaining actions
  • Represent fabrication on site leadership forums; prioritize SpaceX outcomes; coach leaders on process, product, and people leadership

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or related field (6+ years of related experience in lieu of degree)
  • 7+ years of experience in heavy fabrication, welding, machining, or ground/test infrastructure hardware builds
  • 3+ years of leadership experience managing supervisors and/or multi-team fabrication or manufacturing organizations with direct reports

Skills

Required:People leadershipFabrication operations managementProduction planning and scheduling
Last updated Aug 5, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

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