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Launch & Ops

Ark Vessel Assistant Engineer

SpaceX logoSpaceX~$80.1k–$179k/yrtypicalLong Beach, CA, United StatesPosted 2w ago

About the role

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.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead and support the safe operation at sea and maintenance of vessel mechanical systems including propulsion, electrical, and auxiliary systems, reporting to the Chief Engineer
  • Work with the vessel’s master and/or licensed officer for the bunkering of vessel fluids and management of vessel bilge, oil, and fuel resources
  • Complete Engine Room reports, logbooks, and data collection in accordance with regulations and company standards
  • Stand engine room watches as OICEW
  • Responsible for supporting the cleanliness and upkeep standards of the vessel while onboard
  • Support planning and maintenance in support of ongoing operations and ensure full-life support of the SpaceX fleet of vessels
  • Work with the Marine Operations team to ensure the highest standards of readiness by personally assisting in repairs or synchronizing support where required

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)/license: Assistant Engineer Unlimited (1 st , 2 nd , 3 rd AE)
  • 1+ years of professional experience in an offshore Chief Engineer, Assistant Engineer, or QMED role

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor's degree in naval architecture, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, or other technical discipline
  • Knowledge of vessel management systems, safety management systems, and regulatory programs such as OPA 90, MARPOL, ABS classing, etc.
  • 3+ years of professional experience working in an offshore, vessel role that deals with examinations or licensing-efforts with US Coast Guard (USCG) and/or American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) regulations
  • Willing to work outdoors and in maritime environments, and able to work flexible hours during mission support periods
  • Person in Charge (PIC) certification for bunkering

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to pass Air Force background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base & Cape Canaveral
  • Position requires a Merchant Mariner credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing in accordance with 46 CFR 16 and 49 CFR 40
  • Must be willing to travel to other SpaceX locations as necessary; role may require travel
  • 50-hour work week is typical, and may vary depending on site operational needs, flexibility is required

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 .

Copied from the listing SpaceX published, verified 29 Oct 2026.

The application

Your details and CV, then 13 questions.

Have readyCVLinkedIn (optional)Cover letter (optional)
  1. 1.
    Please specifyShort answer · optional
  2. 2.
    GPA (Undergraduate)Pick one (13 options)
  3. 3.
    GPA (Graduate)Pick one (13 options)
  4. 4.
    GPA (Doctorate)Pick one (13 options)
  5. 5.
    SAT ScorePick one (156 options)
  6. 6.
    ACT ScorePick one (19 options)
  7. 7.
    GRE ScorePick one (156 options)
  8. 8.
    Active Security Clearance(s)Pick any (8 options)
  9. 9.
    SpaceX & SpaceXAI Employment HistoryPick one
  10. 10.
    Can you perform all of the essential functions of this role with or without reasonable accommodations?Yes or no
  11. 11.
    Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?Pick one
  12. 12.
    Citizenship StatusPick one
  13. 13.
    If (f) Other, please explain:Short answer · optional

Taken from the application form SpaceX runs, verified 29 Oct 2026.

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