Join SpaceX as a Sr. Propulsion Analyst to ensure the Raptor engine withstands extreme conditions through advanced structural analysis.
Posted by employer 1 month ago
First seen on Joblaze 1 month ago
Last verified on the company career page 1 day ago
Requirements
- Experience
- 5+ years
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Visa
- Sponsorship available
Not disclosed in this posting: work arrangement.
Benefits
Joblaze summary
The Sr. Propulsion Analyst for the Raptor engine focuses on conducting detailed analyses of the chamber and nozzle components to ensure they can withstand extreme conditions during flight. This role requires expertise in structural analysis, particularly using Finite Element Analysis (FEA), along with a solid foundation in physics and mechanics. Ideal candidates will have over five years of experience in structural analysis and a background in aerospace or mechanical engineering. The position also involves mentoring junior engineers and collaborating closely with hardware and testing teams to enhance engine performance.
Joblaze insights
- Listed about a month ago — first seen on Joblaze August 14, 2026. Last confirmed on SpaceX's careers page October 9, 2026.
- Salary band is in line with the typical range for comparable tech roles (median ~$130,000).
- Starts above 35% of 1241 comparable senior other roles in United States we track (median $143,000 across 189 companies).
Quick facts
- What's the salary range?
- SpaceX lists $135,000–$215,000 for this role.
- How much experience is required?
- At least 5 years of relevant experience for this Sr. Propulsion Analyst, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor) role.
- Does SpaceX sponsor work visas for this role?
- Yes — the posting indicates visa sponsorship is available for the right candidate.
- What seniority level is this role?
- SpaceX targets senior candidates for this position.
- Is this full-time or contract?
- Full-time for this Sr. Propulsion Analyst, Chamber and Nozzle (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.
SR. PROPULSION ANALYST, CHAMBER AND NOZZLE (RAPTOR)
Raptor Structural Analysts ensure that the world's most advanced rocket engine is capable of withstanding extreme pressures, temperatures, vibrations, accelerations, and aerodynamic loading from liftoff to landing. These engineers have a keen eye for detail and complex physics that enable successful performance of Starship's engines. If you possess an affinity for physics, structural mechanics, advanced computing, and unraveling intricate challenges while working with engine hardware, this Chamber and Nozzle focused role may be for you!
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct, document, and present static, thermal, dynamic, and fatigue/fracture analyses for Raptor Chamber and Nozzle through Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and first principles to ensure performance requirements are met
- Output requirements and capabilities for assemblies for all phases of flight
- Collaborate in driving necessary analyses throughout engine component design cycles
- Ensure model predictions are grounded in reality through a practical hands-on approach
- Work closely with hardware and test teams to drive model anchoring and design improvements
- Mentor less experienced engineers on analysis best practices
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline or Physics
- 5+ years of professional experience in a structural analysis field
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, materials engineering, or physics
- Proficient in statics, mechanics of materials, fatigue, dynamics, and/or heat transfer
- Experience with FEA setup and post-processing
- Able to perform hand-calculations to validate and improve models
- Hands-on experience with rocket engines/motors, automotive engine design, or similar complex fluid and structural systems
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Able to deliver on tight schedules
Pay Range:
Level 3: $135,000.00 - $215,000.00
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 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. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
Standard company text repeated across SpaceX's postings is omitted here.