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Tube Bender (Starship)

Starbase, TX
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

Candidates should possess a combination of solid mechanical knowledge, hands-on experience, and the willingness and ability to learn. As a tube bender on the SpaceX sheet metal technician team, you will be responsible for the successful fabrication of precision tube assemblies that support projects that make up the Starship vehicle.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Coordinate activity with technicians and support functions through all tube bending operations, including tube prep, flaring, CNC bending, inspection and cleaning
  • Set up, operate, and supervise the operation of all tube-bending equipment while working to close tolerances
  • Work closely with engineering to prove out designs to blueprint with minimum fixtures and short schedules
  • Solve tube fitment issues and document changes for further development work
  • Develop and manage actions to improve both quality and productivity

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 1+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience working with thin-walled tubing
  • Experience working with Inconel, titanium, aluminum, nickel, and stainless steel
  • Experience with CNC bending machines and control systems - preferably Crippa, BLM and/or Horn bending machines
  • Previous training in lean/continuous improvement tools
  • Ability to set up and operate tube fabrication equipment
  • Ability to interpret blueprints and articulate work instructions
  • Knowledge of tube cleaning requirements for aerospace
  • Knowledge of orbital tube welding (OTW)
  • Experience with manual tubing benders

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed
  • Must be able to work overtime and weekends as business needs dictate
  • Must be able to lift a min. of 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods - 8 hours minimum
  • Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces
  • Stand: Up to 6 hours per day
  • Sit: Up to 1 hour per day
  • Push/Pull: Up to 75lbs. (unassisted) 30 minutes to 1 hour per day
  • Overhead reach: Up to 1 hour per day
  • Walk: Up to 6 hours per day
  • Lift/Carry: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) between 1 to 2 hours per day
  • Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 1 hour per day
  • Kneel/Crouch: Up to 3 hours per day
  • Upper body twist: Up to 3 hours per day
  • Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees 30 minutes or less per day
  • Candidate must be capable of safely using an air purifying respirator, operating heavy equipment and machinery, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description
  • Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review

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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