Sr. Propulsion Engineer (Starship)

SpaceX develops technologies to enable human life on Mars and make space exploration possible.
$125,000 - $175,000
Embedded
Senior Software Engineer
In-Person
4+ years of experience
Space

Description For Sr. Propulsion Engineer (Starship)

SpaceX, a pioneering space technology company, is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to join their Starship program. This role is crucial in developing the next generation of spacecraft that will enable human exploration of Mars and beyond.

The position focuses on developing advanced fluid systems for SpaceX's Starship and Super Heavy vehicles, combining innovative engineering with practical manufacturability. As a Sr. Propulsion Engineer, you'll be responsible for designing and implementing critical systems including high-pressure gas storage, cryogenic fluid management, and thermal control systems.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge space technology with direct impact on humanity's future in space. You'll be involved in the entire development lifecycle, from initial concept through to flight operations, working with state-of-the-art technology and alongside some of the industry's best engineers.

The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in aerospace/mechanical engineering, with specific experience in fluid dynamics and structural analysis. You'll need to be comfortable with hands-on work in challenging environments, as the role involves direct interaction with flight hardware in various conditions.

SpaceX offers competitive compensation ($125,000-$175,000) and comprehensive benefits, including equity opportunities and health coverage. Beyond the technical work, you'll be part of a mission to make humanity multi-planetary, working on vehicles that will actually travel to Mars. The role combines theoretical engineering challenges with practical implementation, offering a rare opportunity to see your designs literally take flight.

The position requires physical capability for hands-on work and flexibility for travel to build sites. Due to ITAR requirements, candidates must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees, or asylees. SpaceX maintains a strong commitment to diversity and equal opportunity employment, ensuring a welcoming environment for all qualified candidates.

Last updated 6 days ago

Responsibilities For Sr. Propulsion Engineer (Starship)

  • Perform fluids system sizing analysis to determine basic system requirements
  • Transform system requirements into hardware concepts and trade implementation options
  • Design pressurized and unpressurized structures, creating original CAD models and prints
  • Perform structural analysis of parts and components
  • Execute design for manufacturability changes
  • Drive first builds of flight hardware and establish production line
  • Coordinate development, qualification, and acceptance testing
  • Participate in design reviews internally and with suppliers
  • Partner with engineering and production teams for vehicle improvements

Requirements For Sr. Propulsion Engineer (Starship)

  • Bachelor's or advanced degree in aerospace, manufacturing, materials, mechanical engineering, or engineering physics
  • 4+ years of mechanical or fluids design, analysis, or build experience
  • Experience with GD&T concepts
  • Experience with fluid dynamics and finite element modeling
  • Experience with pressurized components
  • Experience with Siemens NX or similar CAD package
  • Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Physical dexterity for working in tight quarters
  • Ability to work in extreme outdoor environments
  • Flexibility to travel to remote build sites
  • Must be U.S. citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee (ITAR requirements)

Benefits For Sr. Propulsion Engineer (Starship)

Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401k
Equity
  • Long-term incentives (company stock, stock options, long-term cash awards)
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • 3 weeks paid vacation
  • 10+ paid holidays per year
  • Paid sick leave

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