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Manufacturing Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor) Verified today

SpaceX · Hawthorne, CA · Propulsion · first seen 2026-09-18
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Manufacturing Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

SpaceX is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer with expertise in CNC machining to create the Raptor engine's combustion chamber and nozzle. These components feature some of the most complex geometries in rocket propulsion including intricate regenerative cooling channels, thin-walled high-temperature alloys, and tight-tolerance surfaces that must survive extreme thermal and pressure cycles across hundreds of reuse cycles.

You will design, implement, and scale CNC machining processes and programs that increase production throughput, improve dimensional accuracy and repeatability, and reduce cycle times while maintaining the extreme quality required for Starship. This role sits at the intersection of propulsion engineering, precision CNC machining, CAM programming, and data-driven manufacturing. Your work will directly enable rapid iteration and high-volume production of Raptor chambers and nozzles.

Responsibilities

  • Develop, deploy, and iteratively improve CNC machining processes for Raptor combustion chambers and nozzles, including multi-axis milling, turning, and precision finishing of regenerative cooling channels
  • Develop and optimize CNC programs, tool paths, and machining strategies for complex components using advanced CAM software and offline programming
  • Implement closed-loop CNC process control with real-time monitoring of cutting forces, vibration, spindle load, temperature, and tool wear to maintain tight tolerances and prevent defects
  • Build data pipelines that capture high-resolution CNC telemetry and feed statistical process control, predictive analytics, and machine learning models to minimize scrap and optimize parameters
  • Design custom fixtures, work holding, and pallet systems that support high-precision CNC machining of large, thin-walled hardware while reducing setup time
  • Own CNC software infrastructure including post-processors, macros, simulation, and digital twin integration, with version control and rigorous testing
  • Collaborate with propulsion design, materials, and production teams to rapidly translate new chamber/nozzle designs into robust, repeatable CNC processes
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times, increase first-pass yield, and scale CNC capacity for high-rate Starship production
  • Integrate in-process metrology (touch probing, laser scanning, on-machine measurement) for adaptive CNC machining and automated quality verification within the same setup

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
  • 1+ year of hands-on experience with CNC machining and programming for metallic components

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Programming skills in Python and proficiency with CAM software, G-code, and CNC controllers
  • Ability to deploy multi-axis CNC processes and in-process metrology in production environments
  • Direct experience with CNC machining rocket engine chambers, nozzles, or regeneratively cooled hardware
  • Experience in 5-axis CNC milling, high-speed machining, and precision finishing of high-performance alloys
  • Experience with CAM software, digital twins, post-processor development, and integrating CNC machines into production lines
  • Familiarity with metrology and non-destructive evaluation tied to machined features (CMM, structured light, ultrasonic)
  • Knowledge of statistical process control, GD&T, and data-driven methods for CNC quality prediction
  • Experience in design for manufacturability (DFM) with demonstrable success at taking products through development, testing, and production
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-ownership environment with aggressive schedules
  • Ability to work well in an integrated and collaborative team environment including daily interactions with technicians, engineers, and managers

Additional Requirements

  • Must be able to stand for long durations (8 hours minimum) and work directly with hardware on the floor
  • Must be comfortable stooping, bending, and standing
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
  • 10% travel in support of launch and test of hardware
  • Flexibility in working hours to production and launch cadence

Compensation

Pay Range:
Level 1: $100,000 - $130,000
Level 2: $115,000 - $160,000

Actual level and base salary determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may be eligible for long-term incentives in company stock or long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid parental leave included. You will accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Paid sick leave accrual pursuant to Company policy.

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 (green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. Section 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. Section 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.