Propulsion Engineer (Raptor Flight)

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.PROPULSION ENGINEER (RAPTOR FLIGHT)The Propulsion Engineer role is responsible for taking hardware from concept through to flight (and re-flight) operations, and everything in between. Pursue all processes necessary to effectively and safely prepare and fly world-changing launch vehicles. Work with brilliant, passionate engineers to rapidly develop methods to achieve airline-like operations for the highest performing rocket engines in the world.RESPONSIBILITIES: Perform design, analysis, development engineering, and flight operations tasks for Raptor engine propulsion systemsAlign resources to accomplish key objectives; assign clear accountability for important objectives, and set the performance bar at the high standard of excellenceEnable high launch cadence with unparalleled reliability through automated analysis of test and flight data; expand existing capabilities and develop new algorithms to improve reliability and thoroughness of all flight processesCollaborate with engineers and technicians from most engineering disciplines, including stage propulsion, structure, launch, testing, production, ground, software, avionics, guidance and control, mission management, flight reliability, etc. to achieve successful and reliable engine performance in flight and during ground testing, and to continuously refine the designs and practices for increased reliability and reduced costsSupport live test and flight operations in role of primary console operatorExercise risk-conscious decision-making skills under high pressure, across multi-disciplinary systemsSupport vehicle-level readiness and data reviews for the engine systemRepresent engine system in role of a responsible engineer to the rest of the vehicle, ground, customer, and administrative disciplinesDevelop test plans, and analyze test results in support of test and flight operationsExecute walkdowns, and support hardware troubleshooting in the fieldImplement and maintain rigorous hardware and software verification processes through practical application of automation and process controlsFully own critical spaceflight hardware with profound responsibilityBalance competing priorities and several dynamic projects simultaneously, while assessing level of depth/accuracy needed for each taskPush tasks to complete closure, with a burning sense of urgency and extreme ownershipAbility to pivot and adapt quickly to changes in direction, schedule, priority, and/or level of depth as needed, to stay aligned with program’s shifting needsOperate in high-stress environment with grit and endurance BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline1+ years of experience with pressurized fluid systems1+ years of experience in hardware design, manufacture, assembly, test and/or flightPREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:Understanding of engineering fundamentals and the ability to perform basic analysisDemonstrable proficiency in the basic principles of compressible/incompressible flow, thermodynamics, and materialsExperience developing hardware from concept to working prototypes, and refining the designs and operations to achieve robustness and autonomyExperience with engineering programming tools (Python, MATLAB, or similar)Liquid engine development experience, or experience working with pressurized fluid components such as valves and pneumatic systemsExperience operating in a rapidly growing, changing and technical environmentAbility to act and execute in a scrappy and entrepreneurial mannerFamiliarity with Starship engine and propulsion systemsFamiliarity with basic concepts of control systemsADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:Must be able to travel between Hawthorne, CA and Starbase, TX in support of test and flight operations and hardware development – up to 10%Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as neededCOMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Pay Range: Level 1: $100,000.00 - $130,000.00Level 2: $115,000.00 - $160,000.00Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.ITAR 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.