Lead Operations Engineer (Special Programs)

Lead Operations Engineer (Special Programs) Location: Hawthorne, CA SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is 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 a team of operations engineers to proactively identify production, engineering, and supply chain deficiencies and operational challenges within the organization. Determine root cause and develop appropriate solutions. Partner with key stakeholders across SpaceX to solve security, quality, delivery, and cost related challenges, understand root‑cause of failures, and implement automated solutions to prevent recurrence. Provide updates to cross‑functional groups and recommend strategic solutions for the broader business with a focus on scaling the growth of Starshield and Special Programs and rapid capability delivery. Address top priorities of the Starshield and Special Programs Leadership team function by monitoring and actioning impactful requests as well as driving success on strategic projects supporting national security objectives. Partner with software development resources to act as the product manager for secure software solutions tailored to special access programs, satellite production, AI use cases and engineering throughput. Develop a team of world‑class operations engineering professionals by conducting regular 1:1s and collaborating on personal development plans for each member. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline. 2+ years of engineering experience in one or more of the following industries: Manufacturing/production operations Supply chain management Military or defense operations Aerospace or government contracting Preferred Skills and Experience Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex information and draw actionable insights. Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and concise research reports. Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment in a fast‑paced, high‑tech environment. Highly organized with a strong attention to detail. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines. Active TS/SCI clearance, or ability to obtain one. Highly collaborative with a great degree of emotional intelligence and maturity. Additional Requirements Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as needed. Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance. Willingness to work in secure facilities (e.g., SCIFs) and handle classified information as required. Compensation and Benefits Pay range: $135,000 – $190,000 per year. Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis, considering job‑related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Those with an active clearance receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $15,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program. Base salary is just one part of our total rewards package. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives in the form of company stock or long‑term cash awards, potential discretionary bonuses, and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, short‑term and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. Employees accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and are eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Paid sick leave is accrued pursuant to company policy, satisfying or exceeding all applicable legal requirements. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, a U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 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 who need a reasonable accommodation in the application or interview process may contact View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP