Propulsion Engineer (Falcon Flight Operations)
Core
Ensure flightworthiness of Falcon propulsion hardware and software over the vehicle lifecycle, driving reliability and rapid reusability for launch operations.
Role type
Senior IC propulsion engineer (rocket systems)
Builds
Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy launch vehicles (M1D/MVacD engines, Stage 1/2 systems)
Domain
Aerospace / Rocket Propulsion
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, combustion, structures/fracture mechanics, materials science, liquid propellant rocket engine cycles, launch vehicle fluid systems, hardware fabrication, assembly, testing, pneumatic systems, hydraulic systems, cryogenic propellants, pressure control devices, valves, tubes/pipes, diffusers, fittings, pad/launch/flight operations
Preferred skills
analytical/scientific programming, collaborative coding in version-controlled repositories, Python, experience testing liquid propellant rockets, experience with pad/launch/flight operations for integrated vehicles, ability to act in rapidly growing technical environments
Technologies
Python, Git
Responsibilities
Make critical decisions for processing Merlin and Stage Propulsion hardware during build, test, integration, and flight; Define, implement, and validate acceptance and operational requirements; Take primary responsibility for the success of Merlin engines or Stage Propulsion hardware for a given test or launch campaign; Support test and launch operations across all SpaceX facilities; Perform post-test and post-flight data reviews; Solve undefined and multi-disciplinary problems; Work closely with commercial and government customers; Lead propulsion anomaly investigations; Develop new automation capabilities to enable extreme launch cadence; Optimize recurring test and mission tasks
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC