Senior Propulsion Engineer, Raptor Flight

SpaceX

Confirmed live yesterday High trust

Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
Hawthorne, CA
Salary
$135,000–$215,000 / yr
Posted
41 days ago
Freshness
Confirmed live yesterday

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Salary context

Competitive pay

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $172k
This role $175k
$125k most similar roles pay here $225k

This role pays more than 59% of similar roles. Most pay $150,000–$194,250 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $175k versus about $172k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

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About SpaceX

SpaceX designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft with the mission of enabling humans to become a multi-planetary species. It operates the Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship launch vehicles, as well as the Starlink satellite internet constellation.

SpaceX currently has 680 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $130,000–$165,000 across 442 roles with salary data.

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At a glance

TL;DR · Senior Propulsion Engineer, Raptor Flight

Sr. Propulsion Engineer (Raptor Flight) The Sr. Propulsion Engineer joins the team to transition Raptor engine operations from initial concepts into reliable, repeatable flight for Starship launch vehicles. This role involves performing analysis, development engineering, and flight operations tasks while managing hardware and software verification processes through automation. The engineer will perform telemetry data analysis as a primary console operator, troubleshoot anomalies during live tests, and conduct trade studies to improve reliability and reduce costs. Key responsibilities include developing test plans, conducting field walkdowns, and collaborating across disciplines like Software and Ground Systems. Required skills include thermofluids fundamentals, experience with liquid rocket engines or pressurized fluid systems, and proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or Siemens NX. The role focuses on solving the technical challenge of achieving high-frequency launch cadence through robust engine performance and automated data analysis for high-performing rocket engines.

What you'll do

  • Perform analysis, development engineering, and flight operations tasks for Raptor engine propulsion systems.
  • Develop and automate test and flight data analysis to ensure high launch cadence and reliability.
  • Serve as a primary console operator during live tests and flights to monitor telemetry and troubleshoot anomalies.
  • Execute hardware walkdowns and perform field troubleshooting of rocket engine components.
  • Create engineering test plans and lead validation campaigns for engine development.
  • Apply thermofluids fundamentals to size fluid systems and conduct performance and risk trade studies.
  • Lead engineering reviews and provide technical recommendations to senior leadership during high-pressure operations.

What we're looking for

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline with training in thermofluids.
  • 4+ years of experience with liquid rocket engines or associated fluid systems.
  • Experience in hardware design, manufacture, assembly, test, or flight.
  • Proficiency in compressible/incompressible flow, thermodynamics, and materials.
  • Experience with engineering programming tools like Python or MATLAB and hardware design tools like Siemens NX.
  • Professional experience with pressurized fluid components, high-temperature systems, or combustion systems.
  • Ability to travel between CA, TX, and FL for test and flight operations.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible for export control authorizations.

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