Hovercraft Pilot - Starbase, TX
SpaceX is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Hovercraft Pilot to join our team in Starbase, Texas. This individual will play a crucial role in supporting SpaceX's mission of advancing space exploration by piloting a mid-sized commercial hovercraft, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of up to 10 passengers on a commuter route.
Responsibilities:
- Safely pilot a mid-sized commercial hovercraft, adhering to all regulations and safety protocols.
- Spearhead and maintain the highest standards of safety, navigation, and operational procedures for SpaceX's hovercraft fleet.
- Lead voyage planning, daily hovercraft operations, and prioritize the safety of all personnel onboard, focusing on commuter route piloting.
- Meticulously maintain administrative reports and logbooks in accordance with regulations and standards, ensuring hovercraft-wide compliance with all relevant programs.
Basic Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
- 3+ years of experience as an offshore pilot or captain.
- Current or in-process captain's license (6-pack or above).
Preferred Skills and Experience:
- Active/current US Coast Guard medical certificate/license.
- 2+ years of documented commercial/military experience operating hovercraft and/or airboats with an exemplary safety record.
- Strong mechanical/maintenance skills, particularly with diesel engines and integrated control/navigation systems.
- 3+ years of professional experience working with US Coast Guard (USCG) and/or American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) regulations, including examinations and licensing efforts.
- Knowledge of vessel management systems, safety management systems, and regulatory programs such as OPA 90, MARPOL, and ABS.
- Willingness to work outdoors in maritime environments and adapt to flexible hours during mission support periods.
Additional Requirements:
- Must be willing to undergo pre-employment and random drug testing in accordance with 46 CFR 16 and 49 CFR 40.
- Travel to other SpaceX locations may be required.
- Flexibility to work a typical schedule of 6-day work weeks with ~60+ hours, which may vary depending on site operational needs.
Compensation and Benefits:
SpaceX offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Competitive Base Salary: Hovercraft Pilot/Level 1: $36,000.00 annual salary + $325.00 per day worked; Hovercraft Pilot/Level 2: $36,000.00 annual salary + $540.00 per day worked. (Actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.)
- Long-term Incentive Opportunities: Eligibility for company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards.
- Additional Compensation: Potential for discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, vision, and dental coverage; 401(k) retirement plan; short and long-term disability insurance; life insurance; paid parental leave; various discounts and perks.
- Paid Time Off: Accrual of 3 weeks of paid vacation and eligibility for 10 or more paid holidays per year. (Exempt employees receive 5 days of sick leave per year.)
ITAR Requirements:
To comply with U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More information about ITAR regulations can be found here.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications and are not influenced 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 wish to review SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities or require reasonable accommodation during the application/interview process should contact the Human Resources Department (see our website for contact information).