Propulsion Engineer, Development Operations; Raptor

Propulsion Engineer, Development Operations (Raptor) – Hawthorne, CA

Space

X was founded with the goal of enabling human life on Mars through advanced space technologies. This posting outlines the Propulsion Engineer role on the Raptor Development Operations team, including system ownership, requirements definition, testing, and collaboration across Raptor and Starship teams.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own system-level processes and operations critical to overall engine function from design and build through testing and flight.
• Establish hardware and operational requirements and collaborate with other engineers to ensure interfacing systems meet requirements to build a high-performance, reliable vehicle system.
• Communicate system capability and requirements to ensure the engine/vehicle system comes together as a cohesive unit through roadmaps, new designs, and development test programs from concept to flying Starship at high rate.
• Own the system through flight, including data review, reuse, and on-console support as needed.
• Drive the development roadmap for new Raptor versions by converting programmatic goals into concrete requirements and developing test requirements and operations.
• Lead development testing on-site at McGregor and/or Starbase facilities, developing test plans, reviewing data, and providing troubleshooting recommendations and solutions; communicate results and drive anomalies to closure.
• Drive findings back to the factory to address problems and reduce risk ahead of flight.
• Maintain a positive and constructive attitude when facing technical and non-technical challenges; be proactive and flexible to changes in department/company strategy.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• 1+ years of experience with pressurized fluid systems.
• 1+ years of experience in hardware design, manufacture, assembly, test and/or flight.

PREFERRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Understanding of thermodynamics, compressible and in compressible flow, thermochemistry, mechanics, heat transfer, and structural design in demanding environments.
• Master’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or similar discipline.
• 2+ years working in multidisciplinary teams in a rapidly changing, demanding environment.
• Ability to troubleshoot hardware test issues or flight anomalies from test data analysis.
• Experience in a test operational role for multiple test articles (engines, components, etc.).
• Familiarity with CAD packages (e.g., Siemens NX).
• Experience delivering high-quality work in a technical, fast-moving environment with tight timelines.
• Experience with systems-level engine modeling.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Willing to travel to support test and launch operations.
• Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Pay ranges:
Propulsion Engineer/Level I: $95,000 – $115,000 per year;
Propulsion Engineer/Level II: $110,000 – $130,000 per year. Final level and base salary determined based on job-related knowledge, education, and experience.

Base salary is part of a total rewards package including potential stock incentives, discretionary bonuses, and the option to purchase stock. Benefits include comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, paid vacation and holidays, paid sick leave, and other perks.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or otherwise authorized to work as required. Learn more about ITAR here.

EEO STATEMENT

Space

X is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment is based on merit, competence, and qualifications and will not be influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation may contact

Space

X also provides voluntary self-identification opportunities for veterans and disability status as part of its equal employment opportunity programs.