The posting, in SpaceX's own words
archived Sep 21, 2026SpaceX 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. CRANE AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT SPECIALIST (STARSHIP) The Crane and Heavy Equipment Specialist is a highly skilled and respected professional responsible for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and operational efficiency of complex lifting and heavy equipment systems, including cranes, heavy lifting equipment, and related support systems. This role requires advanced technical expertise, leadership, and coordination across multiple teams to ensure mission-critical operations are executed flawlessly. The specialist is a proactive leader who drives safety, mentors team members, and implements innovative solutions to enhance team performance and system reliability. SpaceX doesn’t shut down production for maintenance, and instead, we find ways to predict failures and perform the maintenance without interrupting production. This role will require direct work with the engineers and technicians who design and build unique machines and perform risk analysis together to map out the maintenance strategy and find the best condition monitoring systems to monitor the performance.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair cranes and heavy equipment, ensuring team proficiency in these areas Implementing process improvements and physical upgrades to improve reliability Execute maintenance and emergency procedures for lifting and heavy equipment systems Create basic and complex work orders from scratch for assemblies Provide preventative and corrective maintenance on various complex lifting and heavy equipment systems Develop complex rework work order dispositions, including custom hardware installs without design references and functional/leak checks post-rework Drive forklifts and other company equipment Design and create specialized tooling to complete projects or tasks Trains and mentors the operations team to ensure equipment operators are capable of self-diagnosing, troubleshooting, and performing common repairs
Read the full posting ↓
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
High school diploma or equivalency certificate 2+ years of experience with crane and heavy equipment service and maintenance
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
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 Understanding of basic rigging and securing best practices Read and interpret engineering work instructions/drawings and verify that the given load, securing method, transport, and loading/unloading processes are carried out successfully and in accordance with the lift/transport plan Proven track record in high-pressure, mission-critical environments 5+ years of experience as a maintenance technician or field service engineer Experience with CAD and/or mechanical design Experience operating a forklift and other related inventory equipment Ability to read and interpret electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics and drawings Ability to write detailed repair reports (advanced MS Office skills) Ability to use power tools and hand tools as well as heavy equipment Ability to maintain a safe and clean working environment while adhering to company policies, quality policies, and industry standards Detail-oriented, organized, and able to demonstrate a high sense of urgency Analytic thinker who gets to the root of problems and comes up with permanent solutions to remedy issues Experience in aerospace maintenance, lifting systems, or vehicle assembly operations Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be able to stand for extended periods (8 hours min) Must be able to travel for short and extended trips as needed Willing to travel up to 25% Must be available for all shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs. unassisted and working at heights
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 .