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Key details
Why this role is notable
A classic construction trade appearing in a rocket maker's hiring pipeline signals that Starship's production is becoming a heavy-industrial site-building operation, not just an aerospace assembly effort.
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.
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
The Heavy Equipment Operator is a skilled operator responsible for the safe, efficient operation of heavy earthmoving and material-handling equipment that supports Starship production, site development, and infrastructure work. This role runs excavators, loaders, dozers, graders, backhoes, and related machines to move materials, shape grades, and position components while production continues around the work. Operators work directly with engineers and technicians to inspect equipment, perform preventive maintenance, and catch issues before they stop the job. Success depends on precise control, strict safety compliance, and the ability to adapt as priorities change on a fast-moving site.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Operate heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures
- Conduct routine equipment inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment
- Move and position raw materials and finished components with use of material moving equipment
- Support inspection and maintenance of excavators, backhoe, bulldozers, graders, or loaders
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 2+ years of professional experience working hands-on with heavy equipment, heavy equipment operations and/or production maintenance
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Valid CDL
- Experience installing civil infrastructure projects such as underground utilities
- Experience working with excavators, loaders, motor graders, dozers, or trenchers
- Experience performing area, volume and grade calculations in the field
- Able to adapt to constantly changing work assignments and fast-paced work environment
- Excellent concentration and attention to detail with outstanding work efficiency and accuracy
- Work in compliance with the applicable SpaceX and industry standards and regulations
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be available to work all shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed
- Must be able to climb ladders and work in tight spaces
- Required to exert physical effort in handling objects up to 50 pounds
- Required to be exposed to physical environment which involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes or similar elements most of the work day
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.
