Propulsion Engineer, Non-Destructive Evaluation (Raptor) Verified today

Propulsion Engineer, Non-Destructive Evaluation (Raptor)

NDE (Non-Destructive Evaluation) Engineers ensure the structural integrity and reliability of the Raptor Engine. At the Hawthorne facility, you will utilize advanced NDE techniques, including phased-array ultrasonics and immersion ultrasonics to improve manufacturing processes. You will seamlessly integrate these methods with automated systems to enable high-rate production, drive optimizations, and ensure mission success.

Responsibilities

• Develop NDE inspection methods from feasibility through production cut-in, covering sensors, scan development, software, and qualification
• Design and prototype ultrasonic sensor systems, scan setups, and part tooling to meet coverage, sensitivity, and cycle-time requirements
• Partner with responsible engineers on inspection requirements, designing parts for inspectability, method selection, and evaluation of production data
• Validate new techniques with modeling, bench-top trials, and production-representative scans before committing to full-scale hardware
• Drive vendors, tooling, and automation from requirements and procurement through on-site install, integration, and commissioning
• Build and deploy automated evaluation, data storage, and reporting pipelines that link inspection results to work orders
• Define integration test plans, qualification evidence, and production-cut-in criteria that track to the program schedule
• Present risk, performance, and recommendations to manufacturing, design, and leadership
• Debug hardware and software interactions at the inspection cell during development and production
• Use production scan data to improve detection performance, reduce cycle time, and eliminate false calls and escapes
• Train production technicians on new inspection methods and support them through process activation

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline, physics, or computer science
• 1+ years of hands-on experience with non-destructive evaluation techniques and processes

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Master's degree or PhD in an engineering discipline
• Knowledge of a variety of NDE techniques such as phased array ultrasonic testing, immersion ultrasonic testing, eddy current testing, digital radiography testing
• Knowledge of statistical modeling, machine learning, and mathematical optimization
• Understanding of hardware and software development and validation processes
• Familiarity with JIRA or similar task/feature tracking systems
• Knowledge of automation and controls
• Experience with software and automation coding (Labview, Python, C#, SQL)
• Ability to multitask across technology development, project management, and training through introduction of multiple productive solutions from inception and R&D to full-volume production
• Experience with problem solving tools and techniques such as Practical Problem Solving or 8D

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work flexible hours and occasional weekend support as needed
• Ability to travel to vendors and other SpaceX sites as needed (up to 25%)

Compensation and Benefits

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

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 or long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will receive comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid parental leave. You will accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and are eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.

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.