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TIG Welding Trainer, GTAW (Starship)

Starbase, TX
Full Time On-site

WELDING TECHNICAL TRAINER, GTAW (STARSHIP)

The Welding Technical Trainer, GTAW is responsible for the development and implementation of a comprehensive training program that enhances the workforce's ability to perform flight-critical welding operations for the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles. This individual will work with the Weld Development, Build Engineering, and Operations teams to translate skill requirements into practical hands-on training lessons and exercises that qualifies welders to consistently meet quality expectations.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Welding Technical Trainer, GTAW will be responsible for teaching and qualifying students to the standards required by SpaceX in gas tungsten arc welding techniques in a classroom and laboratory setting. The trainer will provide hands-on training, theory-based instruction, and practical assessments to ensure students develop the skills needed to excel in welding careers at SpaceX. The role requires a strong knowledge of welding processes, safety standards, industry best practices, and excellent teaching skills.

  • Teach TIG/GTAW welding techniques, safety procedures, and equipment maintenance to students at various skill levels
  • Develop and update curriculum, lesson plans, and instructional materials in accordance with industry standards
  • Provide hands-on demonstrations and supervise students during practical lab work to ensure safe and effective learning
  • Assess and evaluate student performance through practical tests, projects, and written exams
  • Maintain welding equipment and ensure the laboratory environment is safe and organized
  • Stay up to date with the latest advancements in welding technology and integrate them into the curriculum
  • Collaborate with colleagues to enhance program quality and student success
  • Advise and mentor students during their academic instruction and welding careers at SpaceX
  • Participate and contribute to team meetings, professional development, and other continuing education-related activities

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in welding, welding technology, or engineering and 6+ years of professional welding experience; OR associate degree in welding, welding technology, or engineering and 8+ years of professional welding experience; OR high school diploma or equivalency certificate and 10+ years of professional welding experience
  • 2+ years of experience teaching or training in a classroom or industrial setting

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor's degree in welding technology, industrial education, or related field and/or equivalent work experience
  • Strong knowledge of TIG/GTAW welding processes, materials, and safety protocols
  • American Welding Society Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential
  • Proficiency in using welding equipment, tools, and safety devices
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency in developing training programs and materials, including lectures and student assessments.
  • Ability to work with diverse groups of students and adapt teaching methods to meet individual learning needs
  • Welding experience in the aerospace industry

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • American Welding Society Certified Welding Educator (CWE) credential
  • Must be able to lift 25 lbs. unassisted, bend, stretch, stand for extended periods of time, climb stairs, reach, twist, sit, walk, and/or run
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends to meet critical deadlines if needed

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. Section 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. Section 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.

About SpaceX

SpaceX

SpaceX is one of the most influential aerospace companies in the world, transforming space launch, satellite communications, and deep-space transportation. Founded by Elon Musk, SpaceX designs and manufactures advanced rockets and spacecraft, including Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship, alongside the Dragon spacecraft and the Starlink satellite internet constellation. The company plays a major role in U.S. space access, national security launch capabilities, and commercial space infrastructure.

For job seekers, SpaceX offers opportunities across some of the most demanding engineering disciplines in the industry, including aerospace engineering, propulsion, software development, avionics, manufacturing, robotics, materials science, and mission operations. The company is especially attractive to engineers, technicians, and builders who want to work in a high-intensity environment focused on rapid iteration, vertical integration, and hands-on hardware development at scale.

Unlike traditional aerospace contractors that rely heavily on long development cycles, SpaceX operates with a fast-paced, vertically integrated engineering culture where teams design, build, test, and fly systems in rapid succession. Employees often work directly on flight hardware and production systems, contributing to programs that routinely push the boundaries of reusability, launch frequency, and cost reduction in space access.

As global demand for satellite communications, space infrastructure, and national security launch services continues to grow, SpaceX remains one of the most important employers in aerospace and defense-adjacent technology. For professionals seeking a highly challenging, mission-driven career at the cutting edge of spaceflight and advanced engineering, SpaceX stands out as one of the most ambitious and impactful companies in the world.

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