Propulsion Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

SpaceX•Hawthorne, CA

6h•$100,000 - $140,000•Onsite

About The Position

In this position you will own Raptor Chamber and Nozzle parts and projects spanning production, test, launch, and reuse. You will work within the product team owning either sea level or vacuum configuration hardware. You will work alongside designers, analysts, and manufacturing engineers at the Raptor factory. This is a hands-on role and an excellent opportunity to have technical ownership of Raptor hardware at the cutting edge of spaceflight, while developing personally as an engineer and leader.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
1+ years of hands-on fabrication, assembly, testing, and/or project management experience via internships, labs, clubs, extracurricular activities, or professional industry experience

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in an engineering discipline
System level understanding of liquid rocket propulsion
Demonstrated understanding of thermal structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems
Experience with manufacturing methods such as machining, forming, assembly, welding, brazing, printing, etc.
Ability to perform trade studies using first principals and engineering fundamentals to make clear recommendations even with partial information
Experience with CAD software such as NX, including drafting and GD&T
Success working on a cross-functional team including engineers, production, and/or supply chain
Strong communication and organizational skills

Responsibilities

Responsible technical owner for Raptor chamber and nozzle hardware including piece parts, thrust chamber assembly, and/or nozzle extension
Work closely with technicians and manufacturing engineers to develop and streamline production processes and unblock issues
Interface with Texas teams for hot fire operations including engine testing, stage testing, and flight. Monitor testing and perform inspections, data, and photo reviews as required
Review designs and analysis for chamber and nozzle hardware, develop deep understanding for operating requirements and part history
Own anomaly investigations and drive to closure with supporting teams. Manage risk tickets and mitigations ahead of flight operations
Collaborate with chamber and nozzle designers, analysts, manufacturing engineers, and relevant stakeholders to develop and ultimately release new block upgrades to improve mass, cost, reliability, and performance
Collaborate with Raptor responsible engineers across the department on system and vehicle level trades to drive large scale changes to engine hardware

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan
Short and long-term disability insurance
Life insurance
Paid parental leave
Various other discounts and perks
3 weeks of paid vacation
10 or more paid holidays per year
Paid sick leave
Long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards
Potential discretionary bonuses
Ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan