Propulsion Analyst, Structures (Raptor) Verified today

SpaceX · Hawthorne, CA · Propulsion · first seen 2026-07-16

Propulsion Analyst, Structures (Raptor)

Raptor Structural Analysts ensure that the world's most advanced rocket engine is capable of withstanding extreme pressures, temperatures, vibrations, accelerations, and aerodynamic loading from liftoff to landing. These engineers have a keen eye for detail and complex physics that enable successful performance of Starship's engines. If you possess an affinity for physics, structural mechanics, advanced computing, and unraveling intricate challenges while occasionally working with engine hardware, this role may be for you.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct, document, and present static, thermal, dynamic, and fatigue analyses on the Raptor engine through FEA and first principles to ensure performance requirements are met
  • Output requirements and capabilities for engine/stage interfaces for all phases of flight
  • Collaborate in driving necessary analyses throughout engine component design cycles
  • Ensure model predictions are grounded in reality through a practical hands-on approach

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in an engineering discipline
  • 1 or more years in structural analysis, design, or manufacturing via extracurricular, internship, or full-time experience

Preferred Skills

  • Proficient in statics, mechanics of materials, fatigue, dynamics, and/or heat transfer
  • Experience with FEA setup and post-processing
  • Able to perform hand-calculations to validate and improve models
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Able to deliver on schedule

Compensation

Pay range:

  • Propulsion Engineer/Level I: $95,000 to $115,000 per year
  • Propulsion Engineer/Level II: $110,000 to $130,000 per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is one part of your total rewards package. You may be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of company stock, stock options, 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. Benefits include 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 will accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to company policy.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.