SpaceX · 20 hours ago
Propulsion Engineer (M1D Refurbishment)
Hawthorne, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Entry Level
$95K/yr - $115K/yr
1+ years expSpaceX 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. The Propulsion Engineer will be responsible for the successful and efficient flight and re-flight of the Merlin 1D engines, focusing on integration, test, and manufacturing processes to ensure rapid launch cadence.
AerospaceManufacturingSpace Travel
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Develop integration, manufacturing, and test processes for flown Merlin engines. Drive continual improvements for future builds to enable reliable and timely refurbishment of M1D engines
Own critical flight hardware, systems, and/or processes – every employee at SpaceX assumes profound responsibility for their hardware and the success of the mission
Implement and maintain rigorous hardware verification and validation processes through practical application of automation and process controls
Work closely with cross-functional teams of engineers, technicians, and test/launch sites to process flown M1D hardware
Troubleshoot ground and flight operational issues, develop and verify hardware and software modifications to address as required
Manage engine fleet configuration as design improvements are implemented
Support engine test and flight operations, and perform detailed post-operation data review
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
1+ years of hardware experience performing fabrication, assembly, and/or testing - can be in a professional, academic, or recreational setting
Occasional travel to SpaceX launch and test sites in support of refurbishment, launching, and testing of engine hardware
Occasional flexibility in working hours to support test and launch cadence
Preferred
Liquid rocket engine development and/or operational experience, and/or experience working with pressurized fluid components such as valves and/or pneumatic systems
Ability to work well in an integrated collaborative team environment, including frequent interactions with technicians, other engineers, and managers
Experience with manufacturing techniques, processes, and equipment such as machining, welding, tube bending, structural assembly, etc
Experience with NX or other solid modeling software and with generating, reading, and interpreting engineering drawings
Software/coding experience with Python, SQL, or PowerBI
Master's degree in aeronautical/astronautical and/or mechanical engineering
In-depth understanding of the basic principles of compressible and incompressible flow, thermodynamics, thermochemistry, mechanics, and materials
Ability to make appropriate assumptions and perform trade studies and basic analysis using first principles and engineering fundamentals
Familiarity with basic concepts of control systems
Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills, exceptional attention to detail
Ability to handle high levels of responsibility and demonstrate appropriate accountability
Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal) and ability to succinctly present recommendations to stakeholders, the customer, and management
Familiarity with vehicle test and flight operation processes, common aerospace instrumentation (e.g. pressure transducers/RTD's)
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
Experience certifying commercial products for governmental use
Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and human spaceflight
Benefits
Long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards
Potential discretionary bonuses
Ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan
Short & long-term disability insurance
Life insurance
Paid parental leave
Various other discounts and perks
3 weeks of paid vacation
10 or more paid holidays per year
Paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law
Company
SpaceX
SpaceX is an aviation and aerospace company that designs, manufactures, and launches rockets and spacecraft.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$11.78BKey Investors
Korea Investment PartnersIntesa SanpaoloAndreessen Horowitz
2025-12-12Secondary Market
2025-09-10Secondary Market
2025-08-13Secondary Market· $10M
Leadership Team
Elon Musk
Founder, CEO & CTO
Bret Johnsen
CFO
Recent News
Oman Observer
2026-01-25
legacy.thefly.com
2026-01-23
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