Propulsion Tech: Raptor Chamber & Nozzle (Lvl 4/5)

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Hawthorne, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company stock

Long-term cash awards

Bonuses

Stock purchase plan

Medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Paid parental leave

Vacation and holidays

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Propulsion Technician for Raptor Chamber & Nozzle Assembly and Final Assembly, Level 4/5 on 2nd shift in Hawthorne, CA. The role focuses on assembling and testing rocket hardware with diverse processes, requiring careful adherence to procedures, safety, and quality standards.

The candidate will read blueprints, operate welding equipment, and use precision tools while supporting multiple propulsion systems under defined schedules.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 6+ years of experience in a production, mechanical, or manufacturing environment.
• Experience working in an aerospace environment.
• Experience staging, installing, removing and de-staging propulsion engines.
• A&P license
• 5+ years of experience working on aircraft or rocket engines.
• 5+ years of aerospace engines experience.
• Knowledge of pressure, temperature and flow measurement devices; mechanical and electrical systems; and/or propulsion engines.
• Strong mathematical, basic computer, problem solving and decision-making skills; strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team to meet aggressive schedules.
• Ability to operate and understand readouts on automated asset user interfaces and hydrostatic proof booth.

Responsibilities

• Clean, prepare, and assemble various main combustion chamber assemblies and sub-assembly pieces for EB welding, Laser Welding, Tig Welding, or brazing.
• Perform work according to procedures, specifications, and test instructions.
• Operate machinery such as DAVI roll former, automated TIG welding machine, and hydro-forming sheet metal
• Run automated machines for surface preparation or thermal barrier coating applications.
• Read and interpret technical drawings and follow detailed work instructions.
• Use precision calibrated tools – torque wrenches, micrometers, and calipers.
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment.
• Operate forklifts, cranes and heavy equipment.
• Perform blending, filing and shearing of sheet metal piece parts.
• Clean tools, valves, regulators and maintain a professional and neat work area.
• Stage, install, set-up, test and de-tool Thrust Chamber Assemblies and subassemblies.
• Troubleshoot engines and cell systems.
• Operate test cell instrumentation and uses computer network systems, as well as test units as described in the test instruction.
• Accept or reject test units based on calculated test data and results.
• Perform work according to procedures, specifications and test instructions.

Skills

Aerospace industry experience

Problem solving

Reading technical drawings

Manual dexterity

Safety conscious

Education

High school diploma

Tools

DAVI roll former

TIG welding machine

Hydro-forming equipment

Torque wrenches

Micrometers

Calipers

Test instrumentation

Job description

SpaceX is seeking a Propulsion Technician for Raptor Chamber & Nozzle Assembly and Final Assembly, Level 4/5 on 2nd shift in Hawthorne, CA. The role focuses on assembling and testing rocket hardware with diverse processes, requiring careful adherence to procedures, safety, and quality standards.

The candidate will read blueprints, operate welding equipment, and use precision tools while supporting multiple propulsion systems under defined schedules.