Propulsion Technician (Raptor Test) - Night Shift

Starlink; McGregor (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceX in McGregor, TX seeks a Propulsion Technician (Raptor Test) for night shift to assemble, troubleshoot, and maintain flight and development engines, and to support test stands and tooling at our rocket development facility.

You will work in a highly integrated team, read drawings, handle high‑pressure systems, and travel as needed; ITAR compliance applies. This role offers hands-on engineering exposure in a premier launch program.

Qualifications

• Strong hands-on experience with mechanical systems and high-pressure plumbing.
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions and drawings.
• Experience with power tools and calibrated tooling in a workshop environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform staging, setup, assembly, tests, and installation of hardware for engines.
• Read and interpret work instructions and drawings.
• Prepare test articles, stands, and systems for test operations.
• Ensure all equipment and systems are maintained safely and on time.
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment and instrumentation as needed.
• Collaborate with engineers to document activities and processes.
• Acquire and maintain necessary licenses or certifications.
• Travel to support engine operations as required.

Skills

High school diploma

3+ years mechanical experience

Power tools

Tools

Calibrated tooling

Test equipment

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 TEST) - NIGHT SHIFT

Propulsion Technicians get to assemble, troubleshoot, repair, and perform regular maintenance and work on flight and development engines, as well as support test and build equipment and tooling. Propulsion Technicians support the company by building and maintaining flight worthy rocket engines and associated test equipment, supporting engineering in suggesting and implementing process improvements, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. These technicians support activities in the engine shop and/or engine assembly area, as well as enjoy working outside at the rocket development facility, on our robust test stands, supporting test operations first-hand. Propulsion Technicians enjoy witnessing the rumbling of rocket engines throughout the day. We work as a highly integrated team, and job responsibilities will include helping other programs to ensure the overall success of SpaceX.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform staging, set up, assembly, tests, and installation of hardware for flight, qualification, and development engines.
• Read and interpret work instructions and drawings
• Prepare test articles, test stands, and systems for test operations
• Ensure all build, integration, and test stand related equipment, systems, and servicing are performed on time, safely, and in a professional manner
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment and instrumentation as needed
• Fabricate, repair, and assemble hardware/equipment/tooling/shop aids needed for build, integration, and test operations
• Collaborate with engineers to develop and document activities and processes
• Ensure all components and materials are clean and inspected according to Clean for Oxygen Service Standards
• Operate and maintain hardware, high pressure systems, pumps, pneumatic systems, avionics, and other ancillary equipment
• Obtain and maintain licenses, operator permits or certifications as required
• Acquire proper inventory parts and equipment needed for repair or replacement of defective components
• Process work orders and maintenance tickets
• Perform a variety of related duties in support of engine build, integration, and test operations
• Develop novel ways site wide to streamline processes and increase the reliability of testing operations
• Able to travel to support engine operations

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 3+ years of experience working with and troubleshooting complex mechanical systems, high-pressure fluid/pneumatic systems, or heavy equipment
• 3+ years of experience using power tools, hand tools, and calibrated tooling

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• A&P license
• Experience in aviation electronics and avionics
• Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) certification or training
• Experience with testing process and optimization of test processes
• Experience with hydraulic plumbing repair/fabrication
• Experience in ground support equipment in aerospace industry
• Experience in the space exploration industry, aviation, military or other high-reliability operating environment
• Basic computer skills, including experience using Microsoft Office and photo generation/compilation
• Experience with crane and lift operations
• Knowledge of vacuum systems
• Knowledge of avionics systems
• Knowledge of all types of bore scope inspection equipment
• Knowledge of different fittings such as NPT, MS, and A/N and Swagelok
• A demonstrated ability in reading/understanding technical manuals and reports
• Ability to read, and understand operating system schematics and drawings
• Use of precision measuring instruments/equipment
• Communication skills for relaying data (verbally and in-writing) between other employees and customers
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work both night shift (2:00pm - 12:30am) and day shift
• Valid driver’s license
• Flight hardware typically is built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is necessary to perform job functions
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted
• Must be able to work at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with proper PPE
• Must be able to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain, etc.
• Must be able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Must be available to work overtime and weekends as needed based on site priority; flexibility required

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…? Actually should reach out to [e-mail].