Propulsion Technician (Raptor Production Machining)

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 PRODUCTION MACHINING)   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 manufacturing, 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 ability to work autonomously on defined schedules while keeping safety and quality at the forefront of everything that is done.   RESPONSIBILITIES:   Grind, file, or sand surfaces of metal items, utilizing a variety of hand tools, power tools, and machines  Chase machine cut threads to size  Polish tight tolerance surface finishes  Wash parts that have gone through deburr process  Inspect surface finishes, threads, and broken edges  Remove defects and smooth uneven surfaces  Use tools and fluid flow to remove chips/debris from passages in parts  Borescope parts to check for internal defects and debris  Read and interpret technical drawings and follow detailed work instructions  Operate forklifts, cranes and heavy equipment  Operate test cell instrumentation and use computer network systems as well as test units as described in the test instruction  Operate machinery such as vacuum furnaces, ultrasonic immersion, proof/waterflow booths  BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:  High school diploma or equivalency certificate  1+ years of experience in manufacturing  PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:  Able to bench close tolerance dimensions within what the blueprint calls for  Experience utilizing various measuring instruments: mics, veneers, ultra-sonic thickness gauges  Experience with lean manufacturing and 5S organizational methods  Experience using digital borescopes for visual inspection  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:  Available for overtime and weekend hours  Must be available for 1st shift (5:00 AM – 3:30 PM)  Capable of lifting up to 50lbs without accommodation  Capable of standing and kneeling without accommodation   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 EEOCompliance@spacex.com. 

SpaceX designs, manufactures and launches the world’s most advanced rockets and spacecraft. The company was founded in 2002 by Elon Musk to revolutionize space transportation, with the ultimate goal of making life multiplanetary.

SpaceX has gained worldwide attention for a series of historic milestones. It is the only private company ever to return a spacecraft from low-Earth orbit, which it first accomplished in December 2010. The company made history again in May 2012 when its Dragon...