Propulsion Analyst, Turbomachinery (Raptor)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Hawthorne, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

401(k) plan

Health insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

SpaceX in Hawthorne, CA seeks a Propulsion Analyst, Turbomachinery (Raptor) to perform static, thermal, dynamic, and durability analyses for the Raptor engine, with close collaboration with hardware and test teams.

Bachelor\'s degree required; 1+ years experience; Master\'s preferred. Compensation includes strong salary, stock options, comprehensive benefits and paid time off.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• 1+ years of experience in structural analysis or design (extracurricular and internship experience qualifies)

Responsibilities

• Conduct static, thermal, dynamic, and durability analyses for Raptor Turbomachinery through FEA and first principles.
• Define output requirements for engine/stage interfaces for all flight phases.
• Collaborate across engine component design cycles to drive analyses.
• Align model predictions with reality via practical hands-on validation.
• Work with hardware and test teams to improve designs.

Skills

Statics & materials

FEA analysis

Hand calculations

Communication skills

Durability & heat transfer

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Master’s degree in mechanical/aerospace

Tools

FEA software

Job description

Propulsion Analyst, Turbomachinery (Raptor)

Hawthorne, CA

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

PROPULSION ANALYST, TURBOMACHINERY (RAPTOR)

Raptor Structural Analysts ensure that the world's most advanced rocket engine is capable of withstanding formidable pressures, extreme temperatures, vibrations, accelerations, and aerodynamic loading from liftoff to landing. These engineers have a keen eye for detail and complex physics that enable successful performance of Starship's engines. If you possess an affinity for physics, structural mechanics, advanced computing, and unraveling intricate challenges while occasionally working with engine hardware, a structural analysis role may be for you!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct, document, and present static, thermal, dynamic, and durability analyses for Raptor Turbomachinery through FEA and first principles to inform design decisions and ensure reliability and performance requirements are met
• Output requirements and capabilities for engine/stage interfaces for all phases of flight
• Collaborate in driving necessary analyses throughout engine component design cycles
• Ensure model predictions are grounded in reality through a practical hands‑on approach
• Work closely with hardware and test teams to drive model anchoring and design improvements

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ years of experience in structural analysis or design (extracurricular and internship experience qualifies)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Proficient in statics, mechanics of materials, durability, dynamics, and/or heat transfer
• Experience with FEA setup and post-processing
• Able to perform hand calculations to validate and improve models
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Masters degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, or other engineering discipline
• 1+ years of professional industry experience in structural analysis and/or design of engine hardware

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

Compensation and Benefits

Pay Range:

Level 1: $100,000.00 - $130,000.00

Level 2: $115,000.00 - $160,000.00

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job‑related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives, in the form of company stock or long‑term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here .

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Aff