Lead IT Systems Engineer, Launch

LEAD IT SYSTEMS ENGINEER, LAUNCH 

As Lead IT Systems Engineer, you’re responsible for ensuring critical systems used in support of SpaceX’s launch operations are optimally tuned and ready to propel us towards our mission of becoming a multi-planetary species. This role requires excellent leadership skills, hands-on technical contribution, an action-oriented disposition, flexibility, and the propensity to flourish in a fast-paced and challenging environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead a team of highly skilled IT professionals responsible for implementing and maintaining IT infrastructure that directly supports SpaceX’s launch operations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to distill requirements and design effective IT solutions that support the entire launch lifecycle from pre-flight preparations to post-launch analysis and recovery operations.
• Provide liaison support between SpaceX and the United States Space Force and NASA, participating in technical briefings, evaluating requirements and connecting appropriate resources to solve challenges.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to bolster the reliability of IT systems and advance team efficiency -- change management, performance metrics, monitoring, preventative maintenance, incident handling, customer request handling, etc.
• Oversee and participate in the day-to-day operation of IT systems, ensuring seamless functionality and reliability during critical launch windows.
• Provide coaching and mentorship to other members of the SpaceX team, fostering team cohesion, knowledge redundancy and professional growth.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline and 3+ years professional experience; OR 6+ years of professional experience in an IT administration or IT engineering role in lieu of a degree.
• 1+ years of professional experience leading technical teams and/or projects.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience working with server solutions (hardware and software) in Linux or Windows environments as well as enterprise-grade network infrastructure including switches, routers and firewalls.
• Ability to create and maintain detailed technical documentation and operational runbooks.
• Experience working in a mission-critical environment preferably within the aerospace or defense sectors.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong leadership skills including the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team of IT professionals.
• Ability to independently and effectively manage projects in an extremely fast paced and constantly changing environment.
• Analytical mindset with excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to recognizing and overcoming technical challenges.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willing to work extended hours or weekends as necessary. 
• Ability to provide 24x7 on-call support in emergency situations.
• Valid driver's license.
• Able to lift 25lbs unassisted. 
• Must be comfortable working at heights up to 110 meters with appropriate safety equipment. 
• Recurring travel, up to 20% including air travel and occasional extended time at sea, is required for operational and training purposes.
• Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg.