Propulsion Engineer, Raptor Integration

As a Propulsion Engineer in Raptor Integration at SpaceX, you'll be responsible for leading troubleshooting and diagnostic efforts for engine issues, supporting integration and testing of R&D hardware, managing changes to the fleet, and developing standards to enhance engine performance and reliability. Your role involves collaborating across various teams to ensure that our Raptor engines operate at their best.

To qualify for the Propulsion Engineer role at SpaceX, you need a bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline or physics, along with at least one year of hands-on engineering experience from design teams, internships, or similar environments. Skills in systems engineering, schematic interpretation, and test operations are highly preferred to thrive in this fast-paced team.

As a Propulsion Engineer at SpaceX, you should be prepared to work in varied conditions—often outdoors—dealing with heat, cold, and even noise. The role may also require climbing ladders and working at elevated heights, ensuring rigorous safety measures are in place, like proper PPE.

While SpaceX encourages flexibility, the hands-on nature of the Propulsion Engineer role typically requires in-person presence at the Starbase facility in Texas, especially during critical testing and integration phases where teamwork is essential for safety and success.

Working at SpaceX as a Propulsion Engineer is unique due to the company's mission of pioneering space exploration. You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology with a talented team, with a focus on rapid iteration and improvement in engine design. The dynamic nature of the projects also ensures that you'll continually face new challenges and make a tangible impact on the future of human spaceflight.

In answering this question, focus on specific examples where you've diagnosed engine problems, detailing the methodologies you used to identify issues, the outcomes of your troubleshooting efforts, and what you learned from the experience.

Illustrate your ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively. Share a recent experience where you successfully completed a project under pressure, emphasizing your self-motivation and decision-making skills.

Discuss specific test operations you've been involved in, detailing your role, the objectives of the tests, and any relevant software or automation tools you used. This shows your hands-on experience and readiness for the demands of the role.

Highlight any systems engineering projects you've worked on, emphasizing your understanding of multidisciplinary integration and how you successfully collaborated with various engineering disciplines to resolve challenges.

Walk through your method for authoring work instructions, including research, standardization practices, and iterations based on feedback. Discuss the importance of clarity and thoroughness in ensuring safety and efficiency.

Convey your knowledge of Raptor Engines and their role in the propulsion systems of rockets. Discuss any specific technologies or integration processes you're familiar with, showcasing your enthusiasm and expertise in propulsion engineering.

Emphasize your collaborative approach to receiving and applying feedback. Share examples of how you positively integrated suggestions from design engineers and how this improved project outcomes.

Provide a detailed account of an emergency scenario, what actions you took to address it, how you coordinated with team members, and the ultimate resolution. This reflects your ability to stay calm and effective in high-pressure situations.

List relevant software or automation tools you've used in your engineering work. Explain how these tools contributed to project efficiency and how you utilize them in testing and integration environments.

Share your aspirations in the field of propulsion engineering, focusing on your commitment to advancing technology that supports space exploration and human life on other planets. Highlight how joining SpaceX aligns with these goals.