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 of enabling human life on Mars.

PROPULSION ENGINEER – ION PROPULSION 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Develop (design, analyze, build, and test) electric propulsion system components including thrusters and feed system components (i.e., valves, instrumentation, etc.), tanks/pressure vessels, and/or fluid systems for satellites.
  • 20% time supporting electric propulsion system detailed design and analysis
  • 40% time supporting component manufacturing
  • 40% time supporting component testing and data reduction

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor of Science degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering
• Previous work experience in design using CAD and GD&T, analysis in structural, pneumatics, plasmas, and materials

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Masters of Science degree in aerospace engineer, mechanical or electrical engineering
• Proficient in basic principles of plasma physics, pressurized gasses, rarified gas flow, mechanics, materials, and electrical circuits
• Ability to perform trade studies using first principals and engineering fundamentals to make clear recommendations even with partial information
• Proficient in modern design tools such as NX 8.5 and a solid understanding and application of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5-1994
• Proficient in electric propulsion analytic tools such as Simulink, Matlab, MagNet, COMSOL, and Hall2De
• Knowledge of Hall thruster and pressurized gas system manufacturing techniques, processes, equipment, and other processes such as: machining, orbital tube welding, brazing, and electrical wiring
• Good understanding and experience working with aerospace materials such as metals and composites
• Good understanding of electric propulsion test facilities such as vacuum chambers, thrust stands, and pressure stands
• Experience with test methods/setups and data acquisition systems used in production processes such as oscilloscopes, Opto-22, and Agilent
• Experience with programming languages such as C++, C#, SQL, and Python. (Please note that LabView is not considered a programming language)
• Able to work well in an integrated collaborative team environment, including frequent interactions with technicians, other engineers, and managers
• Highly self-motivated with strong organizational and written/oral communication skills – able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment with ongoing drive for continuous improvement in all aspects of work

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Must be able to work extended hours and weekends and needed
• Must be available to travel domestically as needed
• Able to work in confined spaces such as vacuum chambers

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or 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 SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify the Human Resources Department at (310) 363-6000.