Propulsion Technician (Raptor Flight), Level 4/5 - 2nd Shift

About the role

Propulsion Technicians get to assemble, troubleshoot, repair, and perform regular maintenance and work on flight and development engines, as well as support test and build equipment and tooling.

Propulsion Technicians support the company by building and maintaining flight worthy rocket engines at the launch and test facility, supporting engineering in suggesting and implementing process improvements, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

These technicians support activities in the engine shop and/or engine assembly area, launch mount, test stands, as well as enjoy working outside at the rocket development facility supporting test operations first-hand. Propulsion Technicians enjoy witnessing the rumbling of rocket engines throughout the day.

We work as a highly integrated team, and job responsibilities will include helping other programs and sites to ensure the overall success of SpaceX.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain flight and development engines
• Stage, set up, assemble, test, and install flight, qualification, and development hardware
• Read and interpret work instructions and drawings
• Ability to travel frequently to different sites in order to support engine operations
• Prepare engine and test articles, test stands, and systems for operations
• Ensure all build, integration, and test stand related equipment, tooling, systems, and servicing are performed on time, safely, and in a professional manner
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment and instrumentation as needed
• Fabricate, repair, and assemble hardware/equipment/tooling/shop aids needed for build, integration, and test operations
• Collaborate with engineers to develop and document activities and processes
• Ensure all components and materials are clean and inspected according to Clean for Oxygen Service Standards
• Operate and maintain hardware, high pressure systems, pumps, pneumatic systems, avionics, and other ancillary equipment
• Obtain and maintain licenses, training, operator permits or certifications as required, and provide engine skills training to team members in work center
• Acquire proper inventory parts and equipment needed for repair or replacement of defective components
• Process work orders and maintenance tickets
• Perform a variety of related duties in support of engine build, integration, and test operations
• Develop novel ways site wide to streamline processes and increase the reliability of test and integration operations
• Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• 4+ years of experience working with and troubleshooting complex mechanical systems, high pressure fluid/pneumatic systems, or heavy equipment
• 2+ years of leading operations in a test or engine assembly environment
• 2+ years of experience working on or troubleshooting basic electrical test instrumentation

Preferred Skills and Experience

• A&P license
• Experience in aviation electronics and avionics
• Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) certification or training
• Experience with Raptor/ Merlin testing process and optimization of test processes
• Experience with hydraulic plumbing repair/fabrication
• Experience in ground support equipment in aerospace industry
• Experience in the space exploration industry, aviation, military or other high-reliability operating environment
• Basic computer skills, including experience using Microsoft Office and photo generation/compilation
• Experience with crane and lift operations
• Knowledge of vacuum systems
• Knowledge of avionics systems
• Knowledge of all types of bore scope inspection equipment
• Knowledge of different fittings such as NPT, MS, and A/N and Swagelok
• A demonstrated ability in reading/understanding technical manuals and reports
• Ability to read, and understand operating system schematics and drawings
• Use of precision measuring instruments/equipment
• Communication skills for relaying data (verbally and in-writing) between other employees and customers
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's license
• Flight hardware typically is built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is necessary to perform job functions
• The ability to lift heavy objects is required in this position (up to 50 lbs unassisted)
• Must be able to work at elevated heights (up to 300 feet) with proper PPE
• Must be able to work in extreme outdoor environments - heat, cold, rain, etc.
• Must be able to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise
• Must be available to work overtime and weekends as needed based on site priority; flexibility required. Position requires 50 hours a week minimum

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.