Propulsion Technician (Raptor Foundry) Verified today

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

Propulsion Technician (Raptor Foundry)

SpaceX seeks a motivated, adaptable, and detail-oriented technician with strong industrial manufacturing experience. You will operate equipment and processes that manufacture Raptor engine components, working hands-on in a fast-paced foundry environment.

Responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain robotic systems for shell manufacturing, including part loading, in-process inspection, and slurry sampling
  • Perform operation of burnout furnaces, including cutting and placement of insulation on molds
  • Assist pour operations team with mold transfer processes using robotic equipment, forklifts, and other assisted lift methods
  • Operate large industrial equipment such as abrasive saws, waterjets, and grit blasting machinery to support de-shelling and casting mold operations
  • Read and interpret work order instructions to blend and remove material using carbides or other hand tools, ensuring critical dimensional tolerances are met
  • Handle part transfers and documentation using heat treat ovens
  • Support SLA printing and related finishing and assembly tasks
  • Take initiative in problem solving, cost reductions, and process improvements
  • Collaborate with design, tooling, and quality engineers to transition products from design to high-volume production
  • Provide hands-on support across foundry operations to maintain efficiency and quality

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 1+ years hands-on experience in industrial manufacturing or production, including: heavy industrial equipment operation, surface preparation and finishing, part inspection and quality control, preventive maintenance on machinery, metal fabrication, or operating lab/manufacturing equipment
  • Experience documenting process improvements and working in team-based production settings

Preferred Qualifications

  • 2+ years hands-on experience with foundry processes, investment casting, or operation of large-scale industrial equipment (robotics, furnaces, saws, blasting systems)
  • 3+ years in professional manufacturing or production role, with focus on scaling operations or handling complex industrial workflows
  • Proven track record of creative problem solving, implementing cost reductions, and driving process optimizations
  • Experience starting up new work centers, establishing documented processes, and introducing new products from design to production
  • Familiarity with HMI, PLC, or robot programming for industrial automation
  • Strong manual dexterity for sanding, cutting, assembly, and precision finishing
  • Comfortable adapting to mix of repetitive production tasks and innovative process development
  • Ability to communicate effectively across all organizational levels
  • Exceptional attention to detail and safety awareness in high-stakes environments

Additional Requirements

  • Available for 1st shift (5:00 AM to 3:30 PM)
  • Must be able to work overtime and weekends as needed
  • Must be able to lift and carry 25 lbs
  • Must be able to climb ladders and stairs and work in small, restricted areas

Compensation

Pay range based on level and experience:

  • Technician Level 1: $23.00 to $27.00 per hour
  • Technician Level 2: $26.00 to $32.50 per hour
  • Technician Level 3: $31.00 to $38.00 per hour

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, discretionary bonuses, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage; 401(k) retirement plan; short and long-term disability insurance; life insurance; paid parental leave; 3 weeks paid vacation; and 10+ paid holidays per year.

US Person Requirement

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. Section 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. Section 1158, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.