Tube Bender (Starship) - Level 4/5
Tube Bender (Starship) - Level 4/5
Tube Bender (Starship) - Level 4/5
SpaceX
SpaceX is seeking a senior Tube Bender for the Starship project, requiring expert mechanical knowledge and hands-on experience. The role involves leading tube bending operations, mentoring junior technicians, and ensuring compliance with aerospace standards while driving continuous improvement.
Qualification
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate
- 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment
- Experience working with thin-walled tubing
- Experience working with Inconel, titanium, aluminum, nickel, and stainless steel
- Experience operating and maintaining CNC bending machines and control systems – preferably Crippa, BLM and/or Horn bending machines
- Experience programming and troubleshooting CNC bending machines
- Ability to describe and navigate through a machine’s functions, root cause recurrent issues, and identify the cross-referenced parts needed for repairs
- Previous training in lean/continuous improvement tools
Responsibility
- Lead and coordinate all tube bending operations across teams, including tube prep, flaring, CNC bending, inspection, cleaning, and integration with downstream processes like orbital tube welding (OTW)
- Oversee setup, operation, and troubleshooting of advanced tube-bending equipment, ensuring adherence to ultra-tight tolerances and high-volume production demands
- 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
- Mentor and train technicians on best practices, safety protocols, and advanced techniques; foster a culture of excellence
- Develop and manage actions to improve both quality and productivity
