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

Propulsion technicians get to assemble, troubleshoot, repair, and perform regular maintenance and work on flight and development engines, as well as support test and build equipment and tooling. Propulsion technicians support the company by building and maintaining flight-worthy rocket engines and associated test equipment, supporting engineering in suggesting and implementing process improvements, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. These technicians support activities in the engine shop and/or engine assembly area, as well as enjoy working outside at the rocket development facility, on our robust test stands, supporting test operations first-hand. Propulsion technicians enjoy witnessing the rumbling of rocket engines throughout the day. We work as a highly integrated team, and job responsibilities will include helping other programs to ensure the overall success of SpaceX. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Perform staging, set up, assembly, tests, and installation of hardware for flight, qualification, and development engines.  Read and interpret work instructions and drawings  Prepare test articles, test stands, and systems for test operations and flight  Ensure all build, integration, and test-related equipment, systems, and servicing are performed on time, safely, and in a professional manner  Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment and instrumentation as needed  Fabricate, repair, and assemble hardware/equipment/tooling/shop aids needed for build, integration, and test operations  Collaborate with engineers to develop and document activities and processes  Ensure all components and materials are clean and inspected according to Clean for Oxygen Service Standards  Operate and maintain hardware, high pressure systems, pumps, pneumatic systems, avionics, and other ancillary equipment  Obtain and maintain licenses, operator permits or certifications as required  Acquire proper inventory parts and equipment needed for repair or replacement of defective components  Process work orders and maintenance tickets  Perform a variety of related duties in support of engine build, integration, and test operations  Develop novel ways site wide to streamline processes and increase the reliability of testing and integration operations  Able to travel to support engine operations 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

High school diploma or equivalency certificate  3+ years of experience working with and troubleshooting complex mechanical systems, high pressure fluid/pneumatic systems, or heavy equipment  3+ years of experience using power tools, hand tools, and calibrated tooling 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

A&P license  Experience in aviation electronics and avionics  Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) certification or training  Experience with testing process and optimization of test processes  Experience with hydraulic plumbing repair/fabrication  Experience in ground support equipment in aerospace industry  Experience in the space exploration industry, aviation, military or other high-reliability operating environment  Basic computer skills, including experience using Microsoft Office and photo generation/compilation  Experience with crane and lift operations  Knowledge of vacuum systems  Knowledge of avionics systems  Knowledge of all types of bore scope inspection equipment  Knowledge of different fittings such as NPT, MS, and A/N and Swagelok  A demonstrated ability in reading/understanding technical manuals and reports  Ability to read, and understand operating system schematics and drawings  Use of precision measuring instruments/equipment  Communication skills for relaying data (verbally and in-writing) between other employees and customers  Ability to work effectively in a team environment  Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

Ability to work both night shift and day shift  Valid driver’s license  Flight hardware typically is built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is necessary to perform job functions  Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted  Must be able to work at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with proper PPE  Must be able to work in extreme outdoor environments – heat, cold, rain, etc.  Must be able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise  Must be available to work overtime and weekends as needed based on site priority; flexibility required 

 

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.