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Propulsion Engineer (Raptor Test) Verified today

SpaceX · McGregor, TX · Propulsion · first seen 2026-09-23
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Propulsion Engineer (Raptor Test)

The propulsion engineer is responsible for ensuring Raptor engines and components have been tested and qualified to function in flight conditions. You will specialize in the design and execution of unique development tests for Raptor engine testing on an accelerated schedule, working on one of the world's most complex engines: a full flow staged combustion engine.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute tests at the engine and component level to evaluate hardware performance and survivability during the mission.
  • Own test campaigns end-to-end: test plan creation, new system activation, test operations, data review, and test stand equipment design and fabrication.
  • Provide daily direction and instruction to technicians to fabricate and integrate test articles and stand equipment.
  • Develop and maintain test procedures, sequences, scripts, configuration files, and software.
  • Operate and troubleshoot data acquisition and control systems, wiring, and instrumentation. DAQ systems are primarily National Instruments based.
  • Operate and troubleshoot fluid and mechanical systems including low to high-pressure gaseous working fluids and rocket propellants (high pressure nitrogen and methane systems, cryogenics) as well as structural components and supporting infrastructure.
  • Operate mechanical systems including test stand support structures, heat exchangers, vacuum pumps, tooling, and fluid components such as valves, reliefs, burst disks, and tubing.
  • Automate repetitive test operations to increase efficiency and safety.
  • Develop innovative processes to increase testing capability and rates while maintaining high rigor of safety.
  • Identify and characterize system pitfalls and potential hazards, then work to resolve anomalies by collaborating with design engineers on improvements for test stands and flight hardware.
  • Operate test console and direct a team of technicians to execute test processes.
  • Analyze and review data to ensure hardware is operating as expected using numerical data analysis tools to interpret test results.
  • Act as a conduit for completing the resource management process, including planning, parts, coordination, skilled labor coordination, and process verification.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of hands-on testing experience (experience from internships, clubs or other hands-on extra-curricular activities qualifies)

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or equivalent experience
  • Hands-on test and production facility, factory, or laboratory experience
  • Mechanical aptitude and experience
  • Demonstrated experience where quick-thinking and problem solving plays a critical role
  • Knowledge and/or experience in aerospace structural, mechanical, or propulsion systems assembly and testing
  • Ability to utilize test instrumentation and control components: pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoid valves
  • Ability to solve problems calling for technical analysis
  • Ability to read and understand technical manuals, reports, mechanical and electrical schematics
  • Knowledge of hazardous systems: cryogenic, flammable, hypergolic, pyrophoric
  • Knowledge of high pressure system design and handling
  • Windows Operating Systems, intermediate skill level
  • Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, OneNote), intermediate skill level
  • CAD modeling (Unigraphics NX preferred) and Teamcenter, novice skill level
  • Programming languages (Python, C/C++, SQL), novice-intermediate skill level

Additional Requirements

  • Flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters; physical dexterity is required.
  • Physical effort including sitting or standing for extended periods, lifting and carrying weight such as materials or equipment (up to 25 lbs. unassisted).
  • Work performed in an environment with exposure to fumes, odors and noise.
  • Occasionally exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments (heat, cold, rain).
  • Hours vary depending on site operational needs; flexibility required.

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. § 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.