Propulsion Technician (Raptor Production Machining) - 2nd Shift Verified today

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

Propulsion Technician (Raptor Production Machining) - 2nd Shift

You will manufacture, assemble, and test rocket hardware and sub-assemblies for the Raptor engine. This role demands mechanical knowledge, hands-on skill, and the ability to work independently on defined schedules while maintaining safety and quality standards. You must be flexible, troubleshoot effectively, and adapt across different systems.

Responsibilities

  • Grind, file, and sand metal surfaces using hand tools, power tools, and machines
  • Chase and size machine-cut threads
  • Polish tight-tolerance surface finishes
  • Wash parts after deburring
  • Inspect surface finishes, threads, and edges for defects
  • Remove defects and smooth uneven surfaces
  • Use tools and fluid flow to clear chips and debris from part passages
  • Borescope parts to detect internal defects and debris
  • Read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions
  • Operate forklifts, cranes, and heavy equipment
  • Operate test cell instrumentation and computer systems per test procedures
  • Run vacuum furnaces, ultrasonic immersion, proof test, and waterflow booths

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 1+ years manufacturing experience

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Ability to bench close-tolerance dimensions to blueprint specifications
  • Experience with micrometers, calipers, and ultrasonic thickness gauges
  • Knowledge of lean manufacturing and 5S methods
  • Digital borescope inspection experience
  • Strong math, basic computer, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team to meet aggressive schedules
  • Experience reading automated asset interfaces and hydrostatic proof booth readouts

Additional Requirements

  • Available for 2nd shift (2:45 PM - 12:45 AM)
  • Available for overtime and weekend hours
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs without accommodation
  • Able to stand and kneel without accommodation

Compensation

Pay range varies by level:

  • Level 1: $23.00 - $27.00/hour
  • Level 2: $26.00 - $32.50/hour
  • Level 3: $31.00 - $38.00/hour

Your actual level and salary will be determined based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Beyond base salary, you may receive long-term incentives (stock, stock options, or cash awards), discretionary bonuses, and employee stock purchase plan discounts. Benefits include 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 annually.

ITAR Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government export regulations, you 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 required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.