Sr. Propulsion Engineer (Merlin Turbopumps & Injectors)

As a Senior Propulsion Engineer at SpaceX, your responsibilities will include supporting day-to-day production of Merlin engine sub-assemblies, analyzing manufacturing discrepancies, developing new manufacturing processes, and serving as the subject matter expert on multiple manufacturing processes. You will collaborate with diverse teams to ensure quality hardware is delivered on time and will identify design and process improvements to enhance overall production efficiency.

To qualify for a Senior Propulsion Engineer position at SpaceX, candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in an engineering or STEM discipline and have a minimum of 5 years of mechanical design and/or hands-on manufacturing experience. Preferred qualifications include a Master’s degree in fields like mechanical or aerospace engineering, as well as experience in aerospace welding systems and non-destructive testing techniques.

Candidates aspiring to excel as a Senior Propulsion Engineer at SpaceX should possess strong knowledge of metallic manufacturing techniques, CAD experience, and familiarity with production tooling design. Additionally, experience with non-destructive testing and metallurgical evaluations will be valuable, along with a solid understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) principles.

The work conditions for a Senior Propulsion Engineer at SpaceX are hands-on and can require standing for extended periods while working directly with hardware. The role may involve bending, stooping, and potentially working long hours or weekends, especially when supporting critical production demands.

A Senior Propulsion Engineer at SpaceX can expect a competitive salary ranging from $125,000 to $175,000 annually, alongside a total rewards package that includes stock options, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, and generous paid time off including vacation and holidays. Additional perks include parental leave and various discounts.

To ensure quality in manufacturing processes for propulsion systems, I emphasize regular communication with production teams and implement rigorous testing protocols at each stage of the build. This includes non-destructive testing and thorough documentation for every procedure, which not only safeguards hardware quality but also facilitates continuous improvement.

Certainly! My experience with non-destructive testing includes various techniques such as ultrasonic and radiographic testing. I have led teams in assessing critical aerospace components, which ensures any defects are addressed before going to launch. This proactive approach not only enhances safety but also supports reliability in our propulsion systems.

Teamwork is essential in aerospace engineering projects as it combines diverse skills and perspectives to tackle complex problems. In my previous roles, I have collaborated with different departments, ensuring that engineering, production, and quality teams work in harmony. This synergy leads to more innovative solutions and better overall performance in the project deliverables.

When manufacturing discrepancies arise, I approach them with a structured root cause analysis method. I facilitate discussions among multidisciplinary teams to identify the issue's origin, implement corrective actions, and continuously monitor the results. This ensures not only the immediate problem is resolved but also prevents similar occurrences in the future.

I utilize a systematic approach when designing for manufacturability, which includes evaluating materials, processes, and assembly methods early in the design stage. By applying concepts like design simplification, standardization of parts, and modular design, I strive to create products that are not only easier and less expensive to manufacture but also enhance overall performance.

My background in mechanical design provides a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of aerospace systems. It enables me to visualize how components interact, which is crucial for designing efficient propulsion systems. This perspective also aids in troubleshooting and enhances my ability to streamline manufacturing processes.

Certainly! I led a project focused on optimizing the manufacturing processes for a propellant injector. Through collaborative brainstorming sessions with engineers and technicians, we identified bottlenecks and implemented changes that improved both efficiency and performance. The successful completion of this project significantly reduced production costs while enhancing reliability.

I stay current with propulsion technologies through continuous education, attending industry conferences, and subscribing to technical journals. Networking with other professionals in the aerospace field is also beneficial for exchanging insights. This commitment to lifelong learning ensures I remain aware of emerging trends and advancements in propulsion systems.

Future challenges in propulsion engineering may include developing sustainable propulsion technologies to minimize environmental impact and meeting increasing demands for cost-effective space travel. Balancing performance with sustainability will be critical, along with ensuring safety and reliability in systems that push beyond Earth's atmosphere.

When faced with tight deadlines, I prioritize tasks by assessing their impact on project timelines and overall goals. I focus on high-priority activities that directly influence production outcomes, while also delegating tasks to team members based on their strengths. This strategy helps to maintain a structured workflow and ensures the project stays on track.