Manufacturing Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible with the ultimate goal ofenabling human life on Mars.

MANUFACTURINGENGINEERCHAMBER AND NOZZLE (RAPTOR)

SpaceX is seeking amanufacturingEngineer with deep expertise in CNC machiningto create theRaptor engines combustion chamber and nozzle. These components feature some of the most complex geometries in rocket propulsion including intricate regenerative cooling channels thin-walled high-temperature alloys and tight-tolerance surfaces that must survive extreme thermal and pressure cycles across hundreds of reuse cycles.

You will design implement and scale CNC machining processes and programs that increase production throughput improve dimensional accuracy and repeatability and reduce cycle times while maintaining the extreme quality required for Starship. This role sits at the intersection of propulsion engineering precision CNC machining CAM programming and data-driven manufacturing.

Your work will directly enable rapid iteration and high-volume production of Raptor chambers and nozzles.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop deploy and iteratively improveCNC 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.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in an engineering discipline.
• 1 years of hands-on experience with CNC machining and programming for metallic components.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 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 stand for long durations (8 hours minimum) and work directly with hardware on the floor.
• Must be comfortable stooping bending and standing.
• Must be willing 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.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:

• Manufacturing Engineer/Level I: $100000.00 - $115000.00/per year
• Manufacturing Engineer/Level II: $110000.00 - $135000.00/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.

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.

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.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceXs Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to.