Propulsion Technician - Raptor Chamber & Nozzle Assembly & Final Assembly, Level 4/5 - 2nd Shift

InvestedintheMission; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 4,959,000 - 7,026,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking a Propulsion Technician for the Raptor Chamber, Nozzle Assembly, and Final Assembly on 2nd shift in Hawthorne, CA. Responsibilities include assembling chamber components, performing welds, and testing propulsion hardware while maintaining safety and quality on defined schedules.

The role requires a mix of hands‑on mechanical work, ability to troubleshoot, and independent work with strong communication. ITAR compliance and a willingness to learn are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 6+ years in production, mechanical, or manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Assemble main combustion chamber assemblies and sub-assemblies for welding and brazing.
• Read and interpret technical drawings and follow instructions.
• Operate welding machines and sheet metal equipment (DAVI roll former, automated TIG).
• Run automated surface prep or coating processes and inspect results.
• Use calibrated tools (torque wrenches, micrometers, calipers) for quality checks.
• Maintain a clean, safe work area and support testing activities.

Skills

Aerospace experience

Propulsion engines

Independent work

Strong communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalency

Job description

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 & NOZZLE ASSEMBLY & FINAL ASSEMBLY, LEVEL 4/5 – 2nd SHIFT

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 the 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 can 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 (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.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 6+ years of experience working in a production, mechanical, or manufacturing environment

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 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, 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 min. of 25 lbs. unassisted
• This is a 2ND shift role working from 3:30 PM - 2:00 AM, overtime and weekends as needed
• Able to stand for extended periods – 8 hours min
• Able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Pay Range:

• Level 4: $36.00 - $43.00
• Level 5: $41.00 - $51.00

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 Aff… or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out [e-mail].