Propulsion Technician (Raptor Manufacturing Systems)

InvestedintheMission; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Medical coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid vacation

Discretionary bonuses

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Job summary

SpaceX in Hawthorne, CA seeks a Propulsion Technician (Raptor Manufacturing Systems) with a hands-on approach to build and develop in-house 3D printers and subsystems. You will work with engineers to fabricate, assemble, and commission hardware for advanced propulsion programs.

The role requires 1+ years in manufacturing and strong reading of drawings, GD&T, and instrumented inspection. Competitive wages, overtime, and strong benefits accompany this position.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ years of manufacturing or production experience.
• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Ability to read mechanical drawings and interpret tolerances (GD&T).
• Experience starting up new work centers and driving process optimization.

Responsibilities

• Build, assemble, and commission in-house additive manufacturing printers and subsystems.
• Collaborate with design/build and automation engineers to scale operations.
• Read drawings and interpret tolerances (GD&T) for precision assemblies.
• Set up and optimize production processes, equipment, and workflows.

Skills

Manufacturing experience

Manual dexterity

Process optimization

GD&T interpretation

Reading drawings

Team communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Laser tracker

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

Benchtop inspection tools

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 MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS)

We are seeking a highly motivated, adaptable, and detail-oriented technician with a strong industrial background to drive the build and development of our in-house additive manufacturing printers. You’ll collaborate closely with design/build engineers, automation/controls engineers, and toolmakers to fabricate, assemble, and commission 3D printers and their subsystems. This role demands flexibility, autonomy, hands‑on problem‑solving, and a passion for advancing cutting‑edge manufacturing technology at SpaceX.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

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

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 3+ years in a professional manufacturing or production role, with a focus on scaling operations or handling complex industrial workflows
• Strong manual dexterity for tasks like sanding, cutting, assembly, and precision finishing
• Experience starting up new work centers, establishing documented processes, and driving process optimization
• Experience with laser tracker/articulated arm/coordinate measuring machine, all bench inspection equipment
• Comfortable adapting to a mix of repetitive production tasks and innovative process development
• Ability to communicate effectively across all organizational levels
• Ability to solve complex problems with minimal supervision on tight‑schedules
• Positive attitude and able to work well on a team
• Able to stay organized with strong attention to detail
• Able to read mechanical and engineering drawings and interpret tolerances (including GD&T)
• Able to read and interpret fluid or electrical schematics
• Knowledge/experience working with electrical components and systems
• Experience lifting, rigging, and preparing for heavy crane operations of complicated parts

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be available for 1st shift (5:00 AM - 3:30 PM)
• Ability to work all required shift hours, including overtime and weekends when needed
• Able to work at elevated heights occasionally (scissor lifts and articulated boom lifts)
• Physical effort including standing, lifting, and carrying equipment up to 30 lbs. unassisted

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Propulsion Technician/Level 1: $23.00 - $27.00/hour
Propulsion Technician/Level 2: $26.00 - $32.50/hour
Propulsion Technician/Level 3: $31.00 - $38.00/hour

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, stock options, 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.

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 affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].