Propulsion Technician (Raptor Foundry)

PROPULSION TECHNICIAN (RAPTOR FOUNDRY)
We are seeking a motivated, adaptable, and detail-oriented individual with a strong industrial background who thrives in fast-paced manufacturing environments. As a Foundry Technician, you will leverage your hands-on experience to master evolving processes, operate heavy industrial equipment safely and efficiently, and drive improvements that support SpaceX's mission to build revolutionary launch vehicles and spacecraft. If you have a track record in industrial production and are eager to contribute to cutting-edge propulsion systems, we want to hear from you!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate and maintain robotic systems for shell manufacturing, including part loading, in-process inspection, and slurry sampling


• Perform operation of burnout furnaces, including cutting and placement of insulation on molds


• Assist pour operations team with mold transfer processes using robotic equipment, forklifts, and other assisted lift methods


• Operate large industrial equipment such as abrasive saws, waterjets, and grit blasting machinery to support de-shelling and casting mold operations


• Read and interpret work order instructions to blend and remove material using carbides or other hand tools, ensuring critical dimensional tolerances are met


• Handle part transfers and documentation using heat treat ovens


• Support SLA printing and related finishing/assembly tasks as part of broader production workflows


• Take initiative in problem solving, cost reductions, and process improvements


• Collaborate with design, tooling, and quality engineers to transition products from design to high-volume production


• Provide hands-on support across foundry operations to maintain efficiency and quality

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate


• 1+ years of hands-on experience in industrial manufacturing or production environments, including one or more of the following: heavy industrial equipment operation, surface preparation and finishing, part inspection and quality control, preventive maintenance (PMs) on machinery, metal fabrication, or operating lab/manufacturing equipment


• Experience documenting process improvements and working in team-based production settings

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 2+ years of hands-on experience with foundry processes, investment casting, or operation of large-scale industrial equipment (e.g., robotics, furnaces, saws, or blasting systems)


• 3+ years in a professional manufacturing or production role, with a focus on scaling operations or handling complex industrial workflows


• Proven track record of creative problem solving, implementing cost reductions, and driving process optimizations in industrial settings


• Experience starting up new work centers, establishing documented processes, and introducing new products from design to production


• Familiarity with HMI, PLC, or robot programming for industrial automation


• Strong manual dexterity for tasks like sanding, cutting, assembly, and precision finishing


• Comfortable adapting to a mix of repetitive production tasks and innovative process development


• Ability to communicate effectively across all organizational levels


• Exceptional attention to detail and safety awareness in high-stakes environments

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be available for 1st shift (5:00 AM - 3:30 PM)


• Must be able to work overtime and weekends as needed


• Must be able to lift and carry 25 lbs


• Must be able to climb ladders and stairs and work in small, restricted areas

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:
Technician/Level 1: $23.00 - $27.00/hour
Technician/Level 2: $26.00 - $32.50/hour
Technician/Level 3: $31.00 - $38.00/hour

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.