Propulsion Engineer, Combustion Devices Manufacturing (Raptor) Verified today

SpaceX · Hawthorne, CA · Propulsion · first seen 2026-09-03

Propulsion Engineer, Combustion Devices Manufacturing (Raptor)

As a Propulsion Engineer for Raptor Combustion Devices Manufacturing at SpaceX, you will develop, implement, and optimize production processes for key sub-assemblies and components of the Raptor engine. You will partner with passionate engineers, technicians, and others to solve difficult problems and drive towards creating the most manufacturable and reliable hardware possible for one of the world's most powerful rocket engines.

Responsibilities

  • Develop manufacturing and integration processes for combustion device components and assemblies in the Raptor engine family
  • Conceptualize, demonstrate, and drive to completion innovative manufacturing processes to support high rate production targets
  • Challenge each process, part, and operation while working closely with design and development engineers to create the most manufacturable and reliable engine hardware possible
  • Oversee introduction and implementation of new products and product revisions, frequently multiple at a given time
  • Maintain holistic ownership over the production line, including process consistency, quality, tooling, capital equipment, ergonomics, and safety
  • Resolve recurring manufacturing nonconformances and interface with quality team to implement corrective actions
  • Interact with a multi-disciplinary group of engineers and technicians on a daily basis in support of production, test, and launch
  • Interface with internal fabrication shops and vendors to meet production goals
  • Work with production teams to ensure hardware is delivered on time or ahead of schedule

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
  • 1 or more years of experience with engine, fluid, or system design, development, fabrication, assembly, or test (internship or project team experience is applicable)

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Experience working with liquid rocket engines, spacecraft systems, and pressurized fluid systems
  • Knowledge of aerospace applications for metals such as steel and aluminum, as well as high temperature alloys such as Inconel, molybdenum, and niobium
  • Familiarity with fundamentals of common joining processes such as brazing and welding
  • Expertise in design for manufacturability (DFM), with demonstrable success at taking products through development, testing, and production
  • Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals for structural and fluids-based applications
  • Highly detail oriented with excellent organizational skills
  • Track record of success in a rapidly growing, changing, and highly technical environment
  • Ability and desire to work in a dynamic, fast-paced, team environment

Additional Requirements

  • This is a hands-on position that will require standing for long durations and working directly with hardware on the floor
  • Must be comfortable stooping, bending, and standing
  • Position may require occasional travel, long hours, or weekend work

Compensation

Pay Range:
Level 1: $100,000.00 to $130,000.00
Level 2: $115,000.00 to $160,000.00

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 at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of 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 are included. You may 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.

ITAR Requirements

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