Propulsion Engineer, Non-Destructive Evaluation (Raptor)

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 ENGINEER, NON-DESTRUCTIVE EVALUATION 

NDE (Non-Destructive Evaluation) Engineers ensure the structural integrity and reliability of the Raptor Engine. At the Hawthorne facility, you will utilize advanced NDE techniques, including phased-array ultrasonics and immersion ultrasonics to improve manufacturing processes. You will seamlessly integrate these methods with automated systems to enable high-rate production, drive optimizations, and ensure mission success.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop NDE inspection methods from feasibility through production cut-in, covering sensors, scan development, software, and qualification
• Design and prototype ultrasonic sensor systems, scan setups, and part tooling to meet coverage, sensitivity, and cycle-time requirements
• Partner with responsible engineers on inspection requirements, designing parts for inspectability, method selection, and evaluation of production data
• Validate new techniques with modeling, bench-top trials, and production-representative scans before committing to full-scale hardware
• Drive vendors, tooling, and automation from requirements and procurement through on-site install, integration, and commissioning
• Build and deploy automated evaluation, data storage, and reporting pipelines that link inspection results to work orders
• Define integration test plans, qualification evidence, and production-cut-in criteria that track to the program schedule
• Present risk, performance, and recommendations to manufacturing, design, and leadership 
• Debug hardware and software interactions at the inspection cell during development and production
• Use production scan data to improve detection performance, reduce cycle time, and eliminate false calls and escapes
• Train production technicians on new inspection methods and support them through process activation

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline, physics, or computer science
• 1+ years of hands-on with non-destructive evaluation techniques and processes

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering discipline
• Knowledge of a variety of NDE techniques such as phased array ultrasonic testing, immersion ultrasonic testing, eddy current testing, digital radiography testing, etc.
• Knowledge of statistical modeling, machine learning, and mathematical optimization
• Understanding of hardware and software development and validation process
• Familiarity with JIRA or similar task/feature tracking systems
• Knowledge of automation and controls
• Experience with software and automation coding (Labview, Python, C#, SQL)
• Ability to multitask, from developing technologies, project management, and training people throughout the introduction of multiple productive solutions, from inception and R&D to full-volume production
• Experience with problem solving tools and techniques: Practical Problem Solving, 8D etc."

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work flexible hours and occasional weekend support as needed 
• Ability to travel to vendors and other SpaceX sites as needed (up to 25%)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:
Level 1: $100,000.00 - $130,000.00
Level 2: $115,000.00 - $160,000.00

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 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:

• 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 [email protected].