Propulsion Engineer

Sr. Propulsion Engineer (Starship)SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.The Sr. Propulsion Engineer role is responsible for developing the fluid systems to enable high-performance and highly manufacturable interplanetary vehicles. This role will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and building a wide range of fluid systems across the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles.The role includes sizing vehicle fluid systems, engaging in detailed mechanical design, performing structural analysis, and driving the manufacturing and build flow of parts and systems. Systems will include high-pressure gas storage and control, cryogenic fluid management, attitude control systems, and thermal control systems. The Sr. Propulsion Engineer will also develop the concept of operations for their systems, from acceptance testing to in-flight operations.Responsibilities:Perform fluids system sizing analysis to determine basic system requirementsTransform system requirements into hardware concepts and trade implementation and architecture optionsDesign a range of pressurized and unpressurized structures and parts to enable system capability, creating original CAD models and printsPerform structural analysis of parts and components to ensure survivabilityExecute design for manufacturability changes to enhance production efficiencyDrive the first builds of flight hardware and work with a manufacturing team to establish a production lineCoordinate and execute development, qualification, and acceptance testing of flight hardwareParticipate in design reviews internally and with suppliers and customersPartner with engineering and production teams to generate ideas, designs, and improvements for current and next-generation vehiclesBasic Qualifications:Bachelor's or advanced degree in aerospace engineering, manufacturing engineering, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, or engineering physics4+ years of mechanical or fluids design, analysis, or build experiencePreferred Skills and Experience:4+ years of professional experience in the field of aerospace/mechanical engineering4+ years of experience with GD&T conceptsExperience with fluid dynamics, finite element, or related computer-based modelingExperience with pressurized components (valves, regulators, tubes, pipes, etc.)Experience leading operation-critical part mechanical design, including structures and fluids calculations and design considerationsExperience with finite element analysis (FEA) software packagesExperience with Siemens NX or other similar CAD packageStrong interpersonal and organizational skillsAdditional Requirements:Flight hardware typically is built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is requiredAbility to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings and climbing hand over handTypically exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rainWork performed in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noiseSchedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility requiredFlexibility to travel to remote build sitesITAR Requirements:To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner 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 wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to View email address on click.appcast.io.