Test Engineer, Propulsion Components

About the role

In this role, you will be integral to the testing processes for critical hardware associated with SpaceX's Starship, Falcon, Dragon, and Starlink initiatives. Your responsibilities will encompass the entire testing lifecycle, from the initial research phases through to production and failure analysis. The focus will be on high-pressure fluid systems, valves, and components of the Raptor engine, ensuring that all hardware meets rigorous performance standards.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Act as the leading technical expert for instrumentation and testing related to flight hardware, ensuring all systems are rigorously evaluated.
• Develop and implement detailed test plans aimed at assessing the performance and reliability of various hardware components.
• Spearhead investigations into any hardware anomalies or failures, providing critical insights for future improvements.
• Establish requirements and specifications for the development of new automated testing systems that enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including software, mechanical, and electrical engineers, to design and optimize validation infrastructure.
• Train team members on the usage of sophisticated testing equipment and enforce adherence to safety protocols during all testing activities.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards throughout all testing procedures, maintaining a safe working environment.
• Analyze test data to identify trends and areas for improvement, contributing to ongoing product development and refinement.
• Document test results and prepare comprehensive reports that communicate findings to stakeholders effectively.
• Participate in design reviews and provide feedback on hardware designs to ensure testability and reliability.
• Support the continuous improvement of testing methodologies and processes to enhance overall product quality.
• Engage in troubleshooting and problem-solving activities to address any issues that arise during testing.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in engineering or physics is required for this position.
• At least one year of professional experience or project work involving electrical, fluid, or mechanical systems is essential.
• Flexibility to work varying hours, including weekends, as testing schedules may require.
• Physical capability to navigate confined spaces, including crawling and bending, is necessary for hands-on testing.
• Candidates must meet ITAR requirements, which include being a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team are crucial for success in this role.

Nice to have

• Previous experience in product ownership or roles focused on testing engineering would be advantageous.
• Familiarity with propulsion systems, particularly in areas such as combustion testing, cryogenics, or high-pressure fluid dynamics, is a plus.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and system schematics effectively is beneficial.
• Experience using measurement devices for assessing mechanical, electrical, and drivetrain systems would be helpful.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, along with strong communication abilities, are desirable traits.
• A proactive approach to identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate is a valuable asset.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in CAD software for design and modeling purposes.
• Knowledge of systems engineering principles to support the development and testing of complex systems.
• Project management skills to oversee testing campaigns and ensure timely completion of objectives.
• Competence in data analysis and interpretation to draw meaningful conclusions from test results.
• Familiarity with automation and control systems to enhance testing efficiency and accuracy.

Practical notes

Compensation for this position is competitive, with Level 1 salaries ranging from $100,000 to $115,000 annually, while Level 2 salaries range from $110,000 to $135,000 annually. The total compensation package includes stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and participation in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Benefits offered encompass medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, disability coverage, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and more than ten paid holidays each year. SpaceX is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

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.