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Propulsion Technician (Raptor)

Join SpaceX as a Propulsion Technician to assemble and test rocket hardware with a focus on safety and quality.

Location
Hawthorne, CA
Compensation
$2.3k–$3.8k/hr
Level
mid
Type
full time

Posted by employer 3 months ago

First seen on Joblaze 3 months ago

Last verified on the company career page 4 days ago

Requirements

Experience
1–5 years
Education
High school

Not disclosed in this posting: work arrangement, visa sponsorship.

Benefits

401k Match Paid Vacation Equity/Stock Options Paid Holidays Health Insurance Parental Leave

Joblaze summary

The Propulsion Technician at SpaceX focuses on the assembly and testing of Raptor rocket hardware, ensuring that all processes adhere to strict safety and quality standards. This role requires hands-on mechanical skills, familiarity with precision tools, and the ability to troubleshoot complex systems. Ideal candidates have a background in aerospace or manufacturing, with at least one year of relevant experience, and are comfortable working independently or as part of a team. SpaceX's dynamic environment emphasizes innovation and collaboration, making it suitable for those eager to contribute to cutting-edge space technology.

Joblaze insights

  • Listed about 3 months ago — first seen on Joblaze June 16, 2026. Last confirmed on SpaceX's careers page October 5, 2026.
  • This exact title is also open at 1 other location at SpaceX: Hawthorne, CA.
  • Welding appears in 1.4% of 3087 comparable mid other roles in United States; thermal protection systems appears in 0.1% of 3087 comparable mid other roles in United States.

Quick facts

What's the salary range?
SpaceX lists $2,300–$3,800 for this role.
How much experience is required?
1–5 years of relevant experience for this Propulsion Technician (Raptor) role.
What's the tech stack?
Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: Welding, combustion devices, machinery, precision tools, thermal protection systems.
What seniority level is this role?
SpaceX targets mid-level candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?
Full-time for this Propulsion Technician (Raptor) role at SpaceX.

From the original posting

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)

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 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:

  • Perform work according to procedures, specifications and test instructions for Raptor combustion devices and thermal protection systems
  • Operate machinery such as vacuum furnaces, ultrasonic immersion, proof/waterflow booths
  • Clean, prepare and assemble a variety of combustion devices hardware for processes such as electron beam (EB) welding, TIG welding, or brazing
  • Read and interpret technical drawings and follow detailed work instructions
  • Use precision calibrated tools – torque wrenches, micrometers and calipers
  • Perform other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment
  • Operate forklifts, cranes and heavy equipment
  • Perform blending, filing and shearing of metal piece parts
  • Clean tools, valves, regulators and maintain a professional and neat work area
  • Stage, install, set-up, test and de-tool all major Raptor combustion devices engine hardware
  • Troubleshoot engines and cell systems
  • Operate test cell instrumentation and use computer network systems as well as test units as described in the test instruction
  • Accept or reject test units based on calculated test data and results
  • Perform work according to procedures, specifications and test instructions

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 1+ years of experience in manufacturing

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • A&P license
  • 2+ years of experience working on aircraft or rocket engines
  • 5+ years of aerospace engines experience
  • Knowledge of pressure, temperature and flow measurement devices; mechanical and electrical systems and/or propulsion engines
  • 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:

  • Able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
  • This is a 1st shift role working from 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM, overtime and weekends as needed
  • Able to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum
  • Able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces

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              

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:

Standard company text repeated across SpaceX's postings is omitted here.

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