Manufacturing Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

Responsibilities

• Develop, deploy and iteratively improve CNC machining processes for Raptor combustion chambers and nozzles, including multi-axis milling, turning, and precision finishing of regenerative cooling channels.
• Develop and optimize CNC programs, tool paths, and machining strategies for complex components using advanced CAM software and offline programming.
• Implement closed-loop CNC process control with real-time monitoring of cutting forces, vibration, spindle load, temperature, and tool wear to maintain tight tolerances and prevent defects.
• Integrate in-process metrology (touch probing, laser scanning, on-machine measurement) for adaptive CNC machining and automated quality verification within the same setup.
• Build data pipelines that capture high-resolution CNC telemetry and feed statistical process control, predictive analytics, and machine learning models to minimize scrap and optimize parameters.
• Design custom fixtures, workholding, and pallet systems that support high-precision CNC machining of large, thin-walled hardware while reducing setup time.
• Own CNC software infrastructure including post-processors, macros, simulation, and digital twin integration, with version control and rigorous testing.
• Collaborate with propulsion design, materials, and production teams to rapidly translate new chamber/nozzle designs into robust, repeatable CNC processes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times, increase first-pass yield, and scale CNC capacity for high-rate Starship production.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• 1+ years of hands-on experience with CNC machining and programming for metallic components.
• Strong programming skills in Python and proficiency with CAM software, G-code, and CNC controllers.
• Demonstrated success deploying multi-axis CNC processes and in-process metrology in production environments.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-ownership environment with aggressive schedules.
• Ability to work well in an integrated and collaborative team environment including daily interactions with technicians, engineers, and managers.
• Direct experience CNC machining rocket engine chambers, nozzles, or regeneratively cooled hardware.
• Expertise in 5-axis CNC milling, high-speed machining, and precision finishing of high-performance alloys.
• Experience with CAM software, digital twins, post-processor development, and integrating CNC machines into production lines.
• Familiarity with metrology and non-destructive evaluation tied to machined features (CMM, structured light, ultrasonic).
• Knowledge of statistical process control, GD&T, and data-driven methods for CNC quality prediction.
• Expertise in design for manufacturability (DFM) with demonstrable success at taking products through development, testing, and production.
• Highly self-motivated with strong organizational and written/oral communication skills – able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment with the ongoing drive for continuous improvement in all aspects of work.

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to stand for long durations (8 hours minimum) and work directly with hardware on the floor.
• Must be comfortable stooping, bending, and standing.
• Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
• 10% travel in support of launch and test of hardware.
• Flexibility in working hours to production and launch cadence.

Pay and Benefits

• Pay range: Manufacturing Engineer/Level I: $100,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year
  Manufacturing Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $135,000.00/per year
• 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, stock options, 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.

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.