SpaceX
Propulsion Engineer (Raptor Flight)
About this role
SpaceX seeks a Propulsion Engineer to develop and operate Raptor rocket engines from design through flight, collaborating across disciplines to achieve reliable, high-cadence launches. You'll perform hands-on engineering analysis, lead test operations, and drive continuous improvements in engine performance and safety.
What you'll do
- Design, analyze, and develop Raptor engine propulsion systems through all phases from concept to flight operations
- Serve as primary console operator during live test and flight operations
- Develop and execute test plans, analyze results, and support vehicle-level readiness reviews
- Collaborate cross-functionally with stage, structure, software, avionics, and mission management teams
- Automate analysis of test and flight data to improve reliability and enable high launch cadence
- Execute hardware walkdowns, troubleshoot issues in the field, and own critical spaceflight hardware
What they're looking for
- Pressurized fluid systems and hydraulics/pneumatics
- Hardware design, manufacturing, assembly, test, and flight operations
- Compressible/incompressible flow and thermodynamics
- Engineering programming (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
- Liquid rocket engine development experience
- Control systems fundamentals
- Risk assessment and decision-making under pressure
- Rapid prototyping and iterative refinement
Benefits
- Long-term incentives including company stock or cash awards
- Discretionary performance bonuses
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan with discount
- Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge space propulsion technology
- Collaborative environment with world-class engineering teams
Opens the application — the Jobs AI extension fills it for you. Set up autofill
Opens the official application on the employer’s site. No login required.
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
- Describe your experience designing or troubleshooting pressurized fluid systems—what was the most complex challenge you faced?
- Tell us about a time you moved hardware from concept through testing to flight or production; what did you learn?