SpaceX
Propulsion Engineer (Falcon Flight Operations)
About this role
SpaceX seeks a Propulsion Engineer to ensure Falcon rocket propulsion systems remain flight-worthy across build, test, and operations. You'll own critical decisions on Merlin engines and stage systems, support live launch operations, investigate anomalies, and develop automation to accelerate launch cadence.
What you'll do
- Develop deep expertise in Falcon propulsion systems including Merlin engines, Stage 1/2 hardware, and associated fluid/pneumatic/thermal systems
- Make critical decisions during build, test, integration, and flight phases to ensure mission success and 100% vehicle reliability
- Define and validate acceptance and operational requirements to enable rapid reusability and streamlined processing
- Lead propulsion anomaly investigations and drive resolution across multi-disciplinary teams
- Support live test and launch operations from mission control and perform post-flight data analysis for hardware reuse
- Develop automation and coding solutions to accelerate test analysis, flight software verification, and eliminate recurring manual work
What they're looking for
- Propulsion systems and liquid rocket engine design/operations
- Fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and combustion engineering
- Python and analytical programming for data analysis
- Git and version control for collaborative development
- Pneumatic, hydraulic, and cryogenic systems experience
- Hardware testing, fabrication, and assembly
- Problem-solving and communication under high-pressure conditions
- Launch and flight operations familiarity
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SpaceX
SpaceX develops advanced spacecraft and satellite systems, including the Starshield government satellite constellation and Starfall re-entry cargo capsule for global delivery. The company is hiring engineers in avionics integration, software test automation, mechanical design, and hardware reliability to validate flight-critical systems and ensure mission success.
- Website
- spacex.com
Likely interview questions
- Walk us through your experience with liquid propellant rocket engines or fluid systems—what specific hardware or subsystems have you worked on?
- Describe a time you led an investigation into a complex technical failure; how did you approach it and what was the outcome?