Propulsion Stage Systems Engineer (Starship)

SpaceX; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Propulsion Engineer, Stage Systems (Starship) to drive the design and performance of stage propulsion systems, manage feed and pressurization components, and ensure flight readiness through modeling, testing, and operations.

The role emphasizes thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and control concepts, with hands-on fabrication or testing experience and strong communication for cross-functional reviews.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, or aerospace engineering required.
• 1 year of mechanical or fluid system design experience preferred.
• Master’s degree and advanced thermodynamics knowledge are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain top-level requirements, system design, operation, and performance of stage propulsion components.
• Develop and maintain thermal/fluid models of stage propulsion systems.
• Generate and maintain stage control system timing, valve sequencing, and mission design; develop CONOPs from conception through flight software configuration, implementation, and execution.
• Support production, test, and launch operations across SpaceX facilities.
• Review and approve stage system checkouts and non-conformance dispositions; perform final vehicle inspections prior to shipment or test.
• Generate and maintain all stage test plans; support stage testing operations; review test data and provide final sign-off.

Skills

Strong communication

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Mentoring

Scrappy execution

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, or aerospace engineering

Master’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a Propulsion Engineer, Stage Systems (Starship) to drive the design and performance of stage propulsion systems, manage feed and pressurization components, and ensure flight readiness through modeling, testing, and operations.

The role emphasizes thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and control concepts, with hands-on fabrication or testing experience and strong communication for cross-functional reviews.