Propulsion R&D Technician (Raptor)

SpaceX; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 35,817 - 60,614; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Discretionary bonuses

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

Dental coverage

401(k) plan

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Paid parental leave

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Paid sick leave

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Propulsion R&D Technician (Raptor) in Hawthorne, CA to rapidly prototype and test rocket hardware. You will build, assemble, and test components, and collaborate closely with engineers across disciplines to troubleshoot and advance development programs.

The role requires strong mechanical/electrical hands-on skills, ability to work autonomously, and adaptability to a fast-paced environment. Eligible for SpaceX benefits and a robust compensation package.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience with aerospace hardware assembly or mechanical systems is preferred.
• Ability to troubleshoot high‑pressure fluid and pneumatic systems.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineers to rapidly design, develop, and fabricate hardware.
• Build and test rocket components such as valves, regulators, actuators.
• Assemble and integrate components, engines, and test rigs.
• Perform pneumatic/hydraulic tests including leak checks and proof testing.
• Operate basic machining tools and maintain calibration of equipment.
• Maintain lab organization and ensure test equipment is calibrated.
• Assist in root‑cause analysis and implement resolutions.
• Work on multiple projects in parallel in a fast‑paced environment.

Skills

Aerospace hardware assembly

Mechanical systems troubleshooting

High‑pressure fluid systems

Instrumentation (strain gauges, load‑s

Data and control systems

Test operations on mechanical or elec

Education

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

Tools

Machining tools

Welding

3D printing

Pressurized systems handling

Precision measuring instruments

Forklifts and cranes

Job description

PROPULSION R&D TECHNICIAN (RAPTOR)

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.

The Raptor R&D department is a one-stop hardware development laboratory that supports the Raptor organization's needs for rapid prototyping and testing of new rocket and engine hardware. Our technicians in this shop are well versed in various manufacturing techniques, hardware assembly and integration, and pressure and electrical testing. As a technician, you will be responsible for rapidly producing and testing development parts, maintaining a high standard of build quality, ensuring tests are being run correctly, and directly interfacing with many engineers of different disciplines on Raptor. This is a dynamic position that requires the flexibility to work on different systems, the ability to troubleshoot anomalies, and the ability to work autonomously on many projects in parallel. The ideal candidate is highly skilled with mechanical and electrical disciplines, hands-on, flexible, a quick learner, works well in a fast-paced environment, and possesses a can-do attitude.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with engineering personnel from the Raptor team (and other teams) to aid in the rapid design, development, and fabrication of new hardware
• Build and test rocket components such as valves, regulators, and actuators
• Perform assembly and integration of components, engines, and test rigs
• Perform pneumatic and hydraulic pressurized testing, including leak checking, proof testing, cycle testing, and burst testing
• Perform some basic machining operations using a mill, lathe, band saw, drill press, grinding equipment, etc.
• Ensure test equipment and machines are maintained and calibrated, as well as track calibration schedules
• Assist in efforts to uncover root-cause and develop permanent resolution on issues found during development, qualification, or flight
• Maintain lab organization and general cleanliness

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 1+ years of experience with one of more of the following: assembly and integration of aerospace hardware, working with and troubleshooting mechanical systems, high pressure fluid systems, instrumentation (strain gages, load cells, temperature sensors, deflection gages, accelerometers, or pressure transducers), data and control systems, or test operations on mechanical or electrical systems

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Demonstrated record of high-performance (rated 4/4 or above in previous review cycles)
• Demonstrated experience working closely and collaborating with engineers to improve hardware or processes
• Ability to work and communicate (verbally and written) effectively in a team environment
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment
• Ability to effectively troubleshoot and implement solutions in time sensitive situations
• Skill in operating and manipulating machinery and various hand and power tools requiring manual dexterity
• Experience with a variety of manufacturing and fabrication methods such as: machining, welding, 3D printing
• Experience working with pressurized systems and performing pressure tests (leak checks and proof testing)
• Experience with precision measuring instruments / equipment
• Experience reading/interpreting planning documents, schematics, wiring diagrams, specifications, drawings, manuals, blueprints, and engineering sketches
• Basic knowledge of electronics theory and principles
• Experience of precision cleaning of parts and tubing assemblies
• Experience with forklifts, cranes and heavy equipment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be open to work either designated shift, overtime, and weekends
• Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
• Must be able to stand for extended periods - 8 hours minimum
• Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:
Level 1: $26.00 - $32.00
Level 2: $30.00 - $38.00
Level 3: $35.00 - $44.00

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.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• 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 Affi​c… Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out [e-mail].