Manufacturing Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

The role

You will design, implement, and scale CNC machining processes and programs for the Raptor engine's combustion chamber and nozzle. This role involves optimizing tool paths, building data pipelines, and designing custom fixtures to increase production throughput.

What you will do

• Develop, deploy, and iteratively improve CNC machining processes for Raptor combustion chambers and nozzles
• Develop and optimize CNC programs, tool paths, and machining strategies
• Implement closed-loop CNC process control with real-time monitoring
• Build data pipelines that capture high-resolution CNC telemetry
• Design custom fixtures, work holding, and pallet systems
• Own CNC software infrastructure including post-processors, macros, simulation, and digital twin integration
• Collaborate with propulsion design, materials, and production teams
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times and increase yield
• Integrate in-process metrology for adaptive CNC machining and automated quality verification

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
• 1+ year of hands-on experience with CNC machining and programming for metallic components
• 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

Nice to have

• Programming skills in Python and proficiency with CAM software, G-code, and CNC controllers
• Ability to deploy multi-axis CNC processes and in-process metrology in production environments
• Direct experience with CNC machining rocket engine chambers, nozzles, or regeneratively cooled hardware
• Experience 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
• Experience in design for manufacturability (DFM) with demonstrable success at taking products through development, testing, and production
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-ownership environment with aggressive schedules
• Ability to work well in an integrated and collaborative team environment

Benefits

• Company stock or long-term cash awards
• Potential discretionary bonuses
• Ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Short and long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• 3 weeks of paid vacation
• 10 or more paid holidays per year
• Paid sick leave

Before you apply

• 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 eligibl

About the company

SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make human life on Mars possible.