Lead It Systems Engineer

Description:

SpaceX, a pioneer in aerospace innovation with the mission of enabling human life on Mars, is seeking a Lead IT Systems Engineer – Top Secret Clearance to join its dynamic team in Hawthorne, CA. This role is critical in ensuring that IT systems supporting SpaceX’s classified programs are secure, reliable, and fully optimized for mission-critical operations. The position requires a balance of strong leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to operate in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a team of skilled IT professionals overseeing IT infrastructure that supports SpaceX’s national security and classified programs.

• Collaborate across departments to analyze requirements and design robust, mission-specific IT solutions.

• Drive system reliability and efficiency improvements through initiatives such as monitoring, change management, performance optimization, preventative maintenance, and effective incident handling.

• Manage and oversee daily IT operations, ensuring uptime and reliability of classified systems.

• Mentor and coach IT team members, building cohesion, professional growth, and redundancy in knowledge.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline with 3+ years of professional experience, OR 6+ years of IT administration/engineering experience in lieu of degree.

• At least 1+ year of technical team or project leadership experience.

• Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph (or eligibility to obtain).

• Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and provide 24/7 on-call support as required.

• Must be able to lift 25 lbs unassisted and travel up to 20% as needed.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Hands-on expertise with enterprise-grade server solutions (Linux/Windows), networking (switches, routers, firewalls), and mission-critical IT environments.

• Strong documentation and runbook creation skills.

• Previous experience within aerospace, defense, or national security organizations.

• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to explain technical details to non-technical stakeholders.

• Demonstrated leadership abilities to inspire, motivate, and manage IT teams in high-pressure settings.

• Strong problem-solving, analytical mindset, and adaptability in rapidly evolving environments.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Base salary: $135000 – $180000 annually (≈ $11250 – $15000 monthly).

• Additional clearance differential up to $15000 per year.

• Potential bonuses, company stock, and long-term incentives.

• Comprehensive medical, vision, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage.

• 401(k) retirement plan, employee stock purchase plan, and other perks.

• Paid vacation (3 weeks annually), paid holidays (10+), parental leave, and paid sick leave.

Additional Requirements (ITAR Compliance):
Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), refugee, or asylee, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations under U.S. Department of State regulations.