Propulsion Technician, Raptor Chamber and Nozzle Assembly

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 31,684 - 52,348; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation

401(k) retirement plan

Medical, vision, and dental coverage

Job summary

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP is looking for a Propulsion Technician in Hawthorne, CA. This role involves assembling and testing rocket hardware while ensuring safety and quality. Candidates must have at least 1 year of manufacturing experience and a high school diploma.

The ideal candidate will possess mechanical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and experience with various tools and machinery. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered, including paid vacation and a 401(k) plan.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in manufacturing.
• Strong mathematical skills.
• Knowledge of pressure, temperature and flow measurement devices.

Responsibilities

• Assemble main combustion chamber assemblies and sub-assembly pieces.
• Operate machinery for welding and forming.
• Troubleshoot engines and cell systems.

Skills

Mechanical knowledge

Problem-solving skills

Teamwork

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

Tools

Torque wrenches

Micrometers

Calipers

Job description

Propulsion Technician, Raptor Chamber and Nozzle Assembly

Location: 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 TECHNICIAN, RAPTOR CHAMBER AND NOZZLE ASSEMBLY

Candidates should possess a combination of solid mechanical knowledge, hands‑on experience and the willingness and ability to learn. The propulsion technician is responsible for assembly and testing of rocket hardware and associated sub‑assemblies. This is a dynamic position that requires the flexibility to work on different systems, the ability to troubleshoot anomalies, and the capacity to work autonomously on defined schedules while keeping safety and quality at the forefront of everything that is done.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Clean, prepare and assemble various main combustion chamber assemblies and sub‑assembly pieces for electron beam, 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, 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, to ensure an efficient and effective work environment.
• Operate forklifts, cranes and heavy equipment.
• Perform blending, filing and shearing of sheet metal pieces.
• Clean tools, valves, regulators and maintain a professional and neat work area.
• Stage, install, set up, test and de‑tool thrust chamber assemblies and sub‑assemblies.
• Troubleshoot engines and cell systems.
• Operate test cell instrumentation and use computer network systems and test units as described in the test instruction.
• Accept or reject test units based on calculated test data and results.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 1+ years of experience in manufacturing.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience staging, installing, removing and de‑staging propulsion engines.
• A&P license.
• 2+ 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, and 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.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Able to lift a minimum of 25 lbs. unassisted.
• This is a 1st shift role working from 5:00 AM – 3:30 PM, with overtime and weekends as needed.
• Able to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum.
• Able to stoop, bend, crawl and maneuver in tight spaces.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Pay Range:

• Level 1: $23 - $27
• Level 2: $26 - $33
• Level 3: $31 - $38

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

Base salary is just one component of the total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives in the form of company stock or cash awards, discretionary bonuses, stock purchase plans, medical, vision and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, and other perks. You may accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave per company policy which meets or exceeds legal requirements.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, an applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

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