Sr. Propulsion Development Engineer (Raptor) at SpaceX
Hawthorne, CA, United States
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.
SR. PROPULSION DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER (RAPTOR)
The Propulsion Development Engineer role is responsible for taking hardware from concept through to flight (and re-flight) operations, and everything in between. Drive all processes necessary to effectively and safely fly world-changing launch vehicles. Work with brilliant, passionate engineers to rapidly develop methods to achieve airline-like operations for the most reliable rocket engines in the world.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Perform design, analysis, development engineering, and flight operations tasks for engine propulsion systems
Interact with engineers and technicians from all disciplines, including production, test, launch, avionics, GNC (guidance, navigation & control), flight and ground software, mission management, flight reliability, and more
Align resources to accomplish key objectives, assign clear accountability for important objectives, and set the performance bar at the highest standard of excellence
Develop test plans and analyze test results in support of our Texas rocket test facility
Fully own critical spaceflight hardware - every employee at SpaceX assumes profound responsibility for their hardware
Exercise risk-conscious decision-making skills under pressure
Practice flexible prioritization and scope management in order to deliver on group directives
Implement and maintain rigorous hardware and software verification and validation processes through practical application of automation and process controls
Enable high launch cadence with unparalleled reliability through automated analysis of test and flight data via coding - expand existing capabilities and develop new algorithms to improve reliability and thoroughness of all engineering processes
Work with engineers across the company to extend and improve interoperability among existing tools as well as to standardize hardware and software practices, tools, and methods to maximize functionality/value while minimizing future overhead/obsolescence
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
Experience using CAD to design parts/assemblies
5+ years of experience working with engines or fluid systems
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Master's degree in mechanical engineering or aeronautical/astronautical engineering
10+ years of experience developing hardware from concept to working prototypes
Experience with high volume manufacturing
Demonstrable proficiency in the basic principles of compressible and incompressible flow, thermodynamics, thermochemistry, mechanics, and materials
A passion for product design and manufacturing excellence
Understanding of engineering fundamentals and the ability to perform basic analysis
Analytical/scientific programming experience (Python, Matlab, Excel, etc.)
Liquid rocket engine development experience and/or experience working with pressurized fluid components such as valves and/or pneumatic systems
Demonstrated track record of success in a rapidly growing, changing and highly technical environment - ability to act and execute in a scrappy, entrepreneurial manner against tight timelines and aggressive schedules
Professional experience using Siemens NX (Unigraphics), ANSYS or Fluent
Familiarity with basic concepts of control systems
Experience certifying commercial products for governmental use
Great attitude in the face of extreme challenges
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Willing to travel in support of launching and testing of hardware
Willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
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 notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.
