Getting a job at SpaceX
As the technology and space industry continues to grow, many people are looking for ways to get a job in the industry. One of the best ways to do this is to work for SpaceX, one of the best-known space companies in the world.
SpaceX, founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Elon Musk, is a private American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company. The company has developed the Falcon 1, Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, Dragon spacecraft and Starlink satellite constellation.
In 2015, SpaceX became the first commercial entity to send a spacecraft to orbit and then return it safely to Earth. The company has an estimated value of over $100 billion.
SpaceX is known for its innovative technology and cutting-edge spacecraft designs, which has made it a leading player in the aeronautical industry. If you are interested in working for a company like SpaceX, be sure to check out this guide.
SpaceX Values
SpaceX was founded with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling the colonization of Mars. It has a strong belief in using technology to make life easier for everyone and improving the quality of life for all.
SpaceX is committed to innovation, reliability, and safety. Some of its other core values include accountability, teamwork, and communication.
Types of roles at SpaceX
As with any large organization, there are many different types of roles within SpaceX.
The most visible roles at SpaceX are those in engineering and design. These employees are responsible for creating new technologies and spacecraft that will allow the company to achieve its goals.
Operations employees are responsible for ensuring that everything runs smoothly day-to-day. They make sure the rockets launch on time and that the payloads reach their destinations safely.
Finance employees handle the company's finances, ensuring that it has enough money to continue its ambitious projects.
Hiring Process At SpaceX
With over 5,000 employees, SpaceX has a very rigorous hiring process.
It consists of the following steps:
- Online application
- Online tests
- Interviews
SpaceX Online Application
The first step in the process is to complete an online application.
Applicants are asked to provide their resume, cover letter, and contact information. If the applicant meets the basic qualifications for the position, they will be invited to complete a series of online tests.
If your resume gets chosen,applicants are given two to four telephone interviews, including a coding test (depending on the role you've applied for).
SpaceX Aptitude Tests
The online tests for SpaceX vary but typically consist of problem-solving and critical thinking questions, as well as math and English proficiency assessments.
Only applicants who score in the top percentile are invited to interview with SpaceX. The interviews are conducted by a panel of company executives and managers.
Aptitude tests such as numerical, abstract, mechanical and verbal reasoning are common assessments, and are useful tests to practice beforehand.
SpaceX Numerical Reasoning
The numerical reasoning test is designed to measure an individual's ability to understand and work with numbers.
Those who score well on the test are more likely to be successful in jobs that require math skills, such as engineering or accounting.
SpaceX Abstract Reasoning Test
Abstract reasoning tests are designed to measure a person's ability to think logically and to see relationships between different concepts.
They are often used for roles that require high levels of cognitive ability, such as management or accounting positions.
SpaceX Mechanical Reasoning Test
Mechanical Reasoning tests are designed to measure a person's ability to understand and apply mechanical principles.
These tests can be used to screen candidates for SpaceX engineering roles, which require knowledge of basic mechanical concepts.
The questions on these tests can vary, but they typically ask test-takers to solve problems or identify the best solution to a problem.
SpaceX Verbal Reasoning Test
Verbal reasoning tests measure a person's ability to understand and analyze written material. They are used to assess the reading comprehension and critical thinking skills of potential employees.
Verbal reasoning tests can be in the form of a questionnaire, and take between 10–20 minutes to complete.
SpaceX Interviews
There are a number of interviews before you reach the final interview, which may be with the CEO (Elon Musk). Preparing for SpaceX interviews are critical in standing out. You may be asked a range of questions from engineering problems, to behavioural questions that assess your work ethic, experience and competencies.
Interview with Elon Musk
The final stage of the process is a final interview with Elon Musk himself.
He is often quoted as saying that he looks for two things when hiring employees: intelligence and passion. So what kind of questions does he ask during an interview?
One question Musk likes to ask is "What are your 10-year goals?" This question can help gauge whether the candidate is ambitious and has long-term plans. He also likes to ask candidates about their biggest failures and what they learned from them. This can help assess whether the candidate is able to take risks and learn from their mistakes.
Another question that Musk often asks is "How do you handle stress?" This question can help gauge how well the candidate deals with difficult situations.
What is it like to work at SpaceX?
It's an exciting place to be, that's for sure. Employees are constantly working on new projects, and the company culture is very supportive.
If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding work environment, SpaceX is definitely worth considering.
Top Tips To Getting Hired At SpaceX
1. Get experience in the industry
SpaceX is looking for employees with experience in the space industry. If you don't have any experience, start volunteering or interning at a space company. This will show SpaceX that you have a passion for aeronautics and that you're committed to working in the industry.
2. Build your skills
SpaceX is looking for employees with specialized skillsets. Make sure you are an expert in your field and can demonstrate your skills through your resume and interview.
3. Stay up-to-date on SpaceX news
SpaceX is always innovating and changing their hiring process. Make sure you are aware of the latest developments.
4. Prepare for online tests
Be prepared for the types of problems and tests you might be given, particularly around complex science and maths questions. Using online aptitude tests can help you prepare for these.
