Propulsion Engineer

About the role

At SpaceX, we are pioneering the technologies necessary for sustaining human life on Mars, primarily through the development of our Starship and Super Heavy launch vehicles. This position is centered around the design, analysis, and manufacturing of fluid systems that are essential for achieving high-performance interplanetary travel. As a Propulsion Engineer, you will play a critical role in ensuring that these systems meet the rigorous demands of space exploration.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Perform calculations to determine the necessary sizing of fluid systems, ensuring they meet the fundamental requirements for operation.
• Innovate hardware concepts and assess various architectural designs to optimize performance.
• Generate original CAD models and produce technical documentation for both pressurized and non-pressurized components.
• Execute structural analyses to confirm that components can withstand the harsh conditions of space travel.
• Revise designs to enhance production efficiency and ease of manufacturability.
• Supervise the initial assembly of flight hardware and assist in establishing production lines for ongoing manufacturing.
• Oversee the testing phases for flight hardware, which includes development, qualification, and acceptance testing.
• Act as a representative for the engineering team during both internal and external design review sessions.
• Collaborate closely with production and engineering teams to refine current designs and contribute to future vehicle development.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, materials engineering, manufacturing engineering, or engineering physics.
• At least one year of experience in fluid dynamics or mechanical design, which may include internships or participation in student engineering projects.
• Strong analytical skills with a focus on problem-solving in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented atmosphere and communicate technical concepts clearly.
• Familiarity with CAD software and engineering design principles.
• A commitment to safety and quality in engineering practices.

Nice to have

• Over two years of professional experience in aerospace or mechanical engineering.
• More than two years of experience utilizing Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles.
• Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) tools and software.
• Experience with Siemens NX or similar CAD platforms.
• A solid understanding of fluid dynamics and experience with computer-based modeling techniques.
• Background in working with pressurized systems, including components like pipes, tubes, regulators, and valves.
• Experience leading the mechanical design of mission-critical components, including performing fluid and structural calculations.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in CAD software, with Siemens NX being the preferred platform.
• Experienced in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) methodologies.
• Knowledgeable in fluid dynamics modeling techniques.
• Competent in applying GD&T principles in design and manufacturing processes.
• Skilled in conducting structural analyses to ensure component integrity.

Practical notes

• Candidates must comply with ITAR regulations, which means they need to be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.
• The position requires physical activities such as kneeling, crouching, standing, and climbing, often in confined spaces.
• Employees may be exposed to outdoor conditions, including noise, odors, and fumes, as part of the work environment.
• Willingness to travel to remote build sites is essential for this role.
• Flexibility in work hours is necessary to accommodate the operational needs of the site, which may vary.

Join us at SpaceX and be a part of a team that is redefining space travel and exploration. Your expertise as a Propulsion Engineer will contribute to our mission of making life multi-planetary. If you are about engineering and eager to push the boundaries of technology, we encourage you to apply.

About the company

Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.