Sr. Propulsion Thermal Analyst (Raptor Combustion Devices)

SpaceX•Hawthorne, CA

1d•$130,000 - $180,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Propulsion Thermal Analyst role at SpaceX is responsible for ensuring the thermal reliability of Raptor components that are subject to extreme environments from liftoff to landing. This position requires an individual with an affinity for physics, thermodynamics, advanced computing, and the ability to solve intricate challenges associated with complex, high-performance hardware. The analyst will drive the analysis, design, testing, and development of hardware for the Raptor engine, which powers Starship, the largest launch vehicle in history.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline, or physics
4+ years of academic or professional experience related to thermal analysis (extracurricular and internship experience qualifies)

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or materials engineering, or physics
6+ years of academic or professional experience related to thermal analysis
Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software and post-processing
Experience with Thermal Desktop and/or ANSYS Workbench
Experience with 0-D and 1-D thermal/fluid networks
Hands-on experience with rocket engines/motors, automotive engine design, dynamic or complex static fluid systems
Able to perform hand calculations to validate and improve models
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Responsibilities

Conduct, document, and present thermal analyses on Raptor hardware through FEA and first principles to inform design decisions and ensure reliability and performance requirements are met for all phases of flight
Own thermal design of Raptor hardware, from initial high-level analysis down to validation of performance with ground tests, flight, and orbital data
Collaborate with engineers and technicians across a range of disciplines including design, production, development test, launch, reliability and more to develop hardware that meets high-level engine and vehicle objectives
Take a practical, hands-on approach to model validation/verification, ensuring that model predictions are representative of design criteria and tied firmly to test data
Support ongoing design, manufacturing and reliability improvements to the engine, and ensure changes and new designs are properly analyzed and qualified

Benefits

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
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