TUBE BENDER (STARSHIP) - LEVEL 4/5

Candidates should possess a combination of expert mechanical knowledge, extensive hands-on experience, leadership in high-pressure environments, and the willingness and ability to learn. As a senior tube bender on the SpaceX sheet metal technician team, you will spearhead the fabrication of complex, precision tube assemblies critical to the Starship vehicle. You will mentor junior technicians, optimize processes for scalability, and ensure compliance with aerospace standards while driving continuous improvement.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• 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

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 3+ 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 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
• 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