Propulsion Engineer (Merlin Hardware Development)
Core
Own Merlin engine hardware and software from first build through acceptance test, flight, and re-flight to improve reliability, producibility, and performance.
Role type
Senior IC propulsion engineer (rocket engine hardware)
Builds
Merlin rocket engines for Falcon launch vehicles
Domain
Aerospace propulsion / rocket engine development
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
combustion devices, rocket engine development, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, structures/fracture mechanics, materials, manufacturing processes (CNC, welding, castings, additive), Design for Manufacturing/Assembly (DFMA), full engineering lifecycle, risk assessments, root-cause investigations, analytical/scientific programming (Python, Matlab), CAD design
Preferred skills
Master's degree in mechanical/aeronautical/astronautical engineering, Siemens NX (Unigraphics), ANSYS, CFD (Fluent), briefing senior leadership and external customers
Technologies
Python, Matlab, Siemens NX, ANSYS, Fluent
Responsibilities
Serve as Responsible Engineer for Merlin engine components/systems through complete life cycle; Lead development and qualification test campaigns; Design, analyze, produce, and operate propulsion hardware; Resolve production, test, and launch issues hands-on; Brief customers on hardware changes and issues; Implement hardware/software verification and validation; Develop engine maintenance procedures; Lead anomaly investigations and implement corrective actions; Build tools leveraging AI to automate analysis
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC