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Build Specialist, Barrel Production (Starship)

SpaceX· Barrel Production
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Starbase, TXFull-timePosted 2mo ago

About the role

The Build Specialist focuses on root-cause analysis, escalations, and line efficiency to ensure quality, reliability, and efficient production of Starship’s core propellant tank structures, supporting high flight cadence.

Responsibilities

  • Lead data-driven root cause analysis (5 Whys, fishbone, Pareto, etc.) on equipment failures, quality defects, process variability, and downtime; implement permanent countermeasures and preventive/predictive strategies
  • Own engineering escalations end-to-end: triage issues, coordinate with design/manufacturing/build reliability engineers, drive rapid resolution, verify fixes on the floor, and document for 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 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, and mentor technicians on best practices and standard work
  • Drive continuous improvement and 5S: update work instructions, standardize practices, close skill gaps, and implement workstation/process optimizations
  • Support assembly process updates, new equipment integration, and cross-shift/cross-department coordination
  • Collaborate with engineering to improve utilization efficiency by providing data-driven feedback and recommendations to reduce rework
  • Verify safety, compliance, and process integrity on the floor; ensure fixes are robust and sustainable

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalency with 2+ years in hands-on manufacturing OR Bachelor's degree in engineering, math, or science
  • Preferred: Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering, math, or science; 2+ years in manufacturing/process planning/continuous improvement; 2+ years in aerospace/aviation/automotive/manufacturing; experience with automated laser welding/laser cutting

Skills

Required:Root cause analysis
Nice to have:Lean and continuous improvementData analysis
Last updated Aug 12, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

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