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Propulsion Technician (Raptor Production Machining) - 2nd Shift

Join SpaceX as a Propulsion Technician to manufacture and test rocket hardware on the 2nd shift.

Location
Hawthorne, CA
Compensation
$23–$38/hr
Level
mid
Type
full time · On-site

Posted by employer 3 days ago

First seen on Joblaze 2 days ago

Last verified on the company career page 3 hours ago

What you'll build

  • Grind, file, or sand surfaces of metal items
  • Chase machine cut threads to size
  • Polish tight tolerance surface finishes
  • Inspect surface finishes, threads, and broken edges
  • Operate test cell instrumentation

Must have

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

Nice to have

  • Experience utilizing various measuring instruments
  • Experience with lean manufacturing and 5S organizational methods
  • Experience using digital borescopes for visual inspection

Practical constraints

  • Available for overtime and weekend hours
  • Must be available for 2nd shift (2:45 PM - 12:45 AM)
  • Capable of lifting up to 50lbs without accommodation

Requirements

Experience
1+ years
Education
High school
Visa
No sponsorship (stated in posting)

Benefits

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

Joblaze summary

The Propulsion Technician in Raptor Production Machining focuses on the manufacturing, assembly, and testing of rocket hardware, requiring hands-on mechanical skills and the ability to troubleshoot various systems. Proficiency with tools for grinding, polishing, and inspecting metal components is essential, along with experience in manufacturing and familiarity with precision measuring instruments. This role is suited for individuals with at least a year of relevant experience who can work independently or collaboratively under tight schedules. The position operates on a second shift, contributing to SpaceX's ambitious goals in aerospace technology.

Joblaze insights

  • Listed 2 days ago — first seen on Joblaze September 18, 2026. Last confirmed on SpaceX's careers page September 20, 2026.
  • This exact title is also open at 1 other location at SpaceX: Hawthorne, CA.

Quick facts

Is the Propulsion Technician (Raptor Production Machining) - 2nd Shift role remote?
No — this is an on-site role in Hawthorne, CA.
What's the salary range?
SpaceX lists $23–$38 for this role.
How much experience is required?
At least 1 year of relevant experience for this Propulsion Technician (Raptor Production Machining) - 2nd Shift role.
Where is the role based?
SpaceX is hiring for this position in Hawthorne, CA.
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 Production Machining) - 2nd Shift 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 PRODUCTION MACHINING) - 2ND SHIFT

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 manufacturing, 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:

  • Grind, file, or sand surfaces of metal items, utilizing a variety of hand tools, power tools, and machines
  • Chase machine cut threads to size
  • Polish tight tolerance surface finishes
  • Wash parts that have gone through deburr process
  • Inspect surface finishes, threads, and broken edges
  • Remove defects and smooth uneven surfaces
  • Use tools and fluid flow to remove chips/debris from passages in parts
  • Borescope parts to check for internal defects and debris
  • Read and interpret technical drawings and follow detailed work instructions
  • Operate forklifts, cranes and heavy equipment
  • Operate test cell instrumentation and use computer network systems as well as test units as described in the test instruction
  • Operate machinery such as vacuum furnaces, ultrasonic immersion, proof/waterflow booths

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

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

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Able to bench close tolerance dimensions within what the blueprint calls for
  • Experience utilizing various measuring instruments: mics, veneers, ultra-sonic thickness gauges
  • Experience with lean manufacturing and 5S organizational methods
  • Experience using digital borescopes for visual inspection
  • 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:

  • Available for overtime and weekend hours
  • Must be available for 2nd shift (2:45 PM - 12:45 AM)
  • Capable of lifting up to 50lbs without accommodation
  • Capable of standing and kneeling without accommodation

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              

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

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.