Propulsion Engineer

About the role

Join the team responsible for building and testing the Raptor engine. You will focus on the final assembly and tube shop to scale production and refine manufacturing processes for spaceflight hardware. In this capacity, you will own the execution of build and test activities within the production cell, ensuring alignment with strict quality and schedule targets. You will be tasked with creating and improving assembly processes to support high-volume engine manufacturing while maintaining rigorous safety and performance standards. You will work closely with design, build, and reliability engineers to challenge requirements and optimize production schedules for maximum throughput. You will partner with design teams to establish manufacturing standards that simplify final assembly and reduce variability in the build process. You will perform root cause analysis on build issues and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence and drive continuous improvement. You will design, fabricate, and qualify production tooling based on data, using evidence-based decisions to validate each iteration. You will streamline assembly workflows to improve efficiency and reduce costs without compromising reliability or compliance. You will develop standard operating procedures, repair guides, and planning documentation to support a scalable and repeatable operation.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Manage build and test operations within the production area, coordinating resources to meet daily and weekly targets.
• Create and improve assembly processes to support high-volume engine manufacturing, focusing on cycle time reduction and defect prevention.
• Collaborate with design, build, and reliability engineers to challenge requirements and optimize production schedules based on real-time constraints.
• Partner with design teams to establish manufacturing standards that simplify final assembly, minimize manual adjustments, and ensure part compatibility.
• Perform root cause analysis on build issues and implement corrective actions, documenting findings and lessons learned for future programs.
• Design, fabricate, and qualify production tooling based on data, validating functionality through testing and iterative refinement.
• Streamline assembly workflows to improve efficiency and reduce costs by identifying bottlenecks and eliminating non-value-added steps.
• Develop standard operating procedures, repair guides, and planning documentation to support consistent execution and training.
• Apply statistical methods and problem-solving frameworks to analyze trends, drive improvements, and sustain high levels of quality.
• Support the ramp-up of production by enabling equipment, training operators, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality protocols.
• Liaise with cross-functional teams to resolve issues related to supply chain, logistics, and part availability affecting the assembly line.
• Utilize digital tools and databases to track build records, test results, and configuration status for full traceability.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives by proposing design and process changes that simplify manufacturing and assembly.
• Mentor and guide junior team members, promoting a culture of safety, ownership, and continuous learning on the shop floor.

Requirements

• Bachelor degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering.
• Minimum 1 year of mechanical design and manufacturing experience, including collegiate projects like Formula SAE, Baja SAE, or Design Build Fly.
• Ability to work on the production floor for extended periods, standing and moving through multiple shifts as required.
• Must be available for extended hours and weekend shifts as needed to meet production and test commitments.
• Must comply with ITAR regulations, holding U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, refugee, or asylee status to access controlled programs.
• Demonstrated capability to follow detailed procedures, work from drawings, and adhere to strict quality requirements.
• Physical ability to lift, handle, and position heavy components safely, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Willingness to wear required personal protective equipment and adhere to all site safety rules and protocols.
• Capacity to pass background checks and meet aerospace manufacturing security and compliance standards.
• Commitment to maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient work environment in a high-tempo production setting.

Nice to have

• Experience building and testing fluid and electrical systems, including plumbing, routing, and integration activities.
• Proficiency in interpreting schematics and managing documentation, ensuring accuracy and traceability.
• Background in writing test plans and providing go/no-go assessments for hardware and process validation.
• Experience taking products from development to full-scale production, managing transitions and ramp challenges.
• Knowledge of machining, welding, drilling, and automation techniques relevant to propulsion hardware.
• Familiarity with Design for Manufacturability and Assembly principles to optimize part and process design.
• Experience with NX CAD and GD&T to review drawings, tolerances, and geometric requirements.
• Expertise in value stream layout, PFMEA, and error proofing to strengthen process robustness and reduce risk.

Skills & tools

• NX CAD
• GD&T
• PFMEA
• Value stream mapping
• Mechanical assembly and testing

Practical notes

-

Compensation: Level I ($100,000 - $115,000) or Level II ($110,000 - $135,000).

• Benefits include company stock, stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Includes medical, dental, vision, 401(k), disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, 3 weeks of vacation, and 10+ paid holidays.
• ITAR compliance: Applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.
• SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer.