Manufacturing Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER, CHAMBER AND NOZZLE (RAPTOR)

SpaceX is seeking a manufacturing Engineer with deep expertise in CNC machining to create the Raptor engine’s combustion chamber and nozzle. These components feature some of the most complex geometries in rocket propulsion — including intricate regenerative cooling channels, thin-walled high-temperature alloys, and tight-tolerance surfaces that must survive extreme thermal and pressure cycles across hundreds of reuse cycles.

You will design, implement, and scale CNC machining processes and programs that increase production throughput, improve dimensional accuracy and repeatability, and reduce cycle times while maintaining the extreme quality required for Starship. This role sits at the intersection of propulsion engineering, precision CNC machining, CAM programming, and data-driven manufacturing.

Your work will directly enable rapid iteration and high-volume production of Raptor chambers and nozzles.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop, deploy and iteratively improve CNC machining processes for Raptor combustion chambers and nozzles, including multi-axis milling, turning, and precision finishing of regenerative cooling channels.
• Develop and optimize CNC programs, tool paths, and machining strategies for complex components using advanced CAM software and offline programming.
• Implement closed-loop CNC process control with real-time monitoring of cutting forces, vibration, spindle load, temperature, and tool wear to maintain tight tolerances and prevent defects.
• Integrate in-process metrology (touch probing, laser scanning, on-machine measurement) for adaptive CNC machining and automated quality verification within the same setup.
• Build data pipelines that capture high-resolution CNC telemetry and feed statistical process control, predictive analytics, and machine learning models to minimize scrap and optimize parameters.
• Design custom fixtures, workholding, and pallet systems that support high-precision CNC machining of large, thin-walled hardware while reducing setup time.
• Own CNC software infrastructure including post-processors, macros, simulation, and digital twin integration, with version control and rigorous testing.
• Collaborate with propulsion design, materials, and production teams to rapidly translate new chamber/nozzle designs into robust, repeatable CNC processes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times, increase first-pass yield, and scale CNC capacity for high-rate Starship production.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

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

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Strong programming skills in Python and proficiency with CAM software, G-code, and CNC controllers.
• Demonstrated success deploying multi-axis CNC processes and in-process metrology in production environments.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-ownership environment with aggressive schedules.
• Ability to work well in an integrated and collaborative team environment including daily interactions with technicians, engineers, and managers.
• Direct experience CNC machining rocket engine chambers, nozzles, or regeneratively cooled hardware.
• Expertise 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.
• Expertise in design for manufacturability (DFM) with demonstrable success at taking products through development, testing, and production.
• Highly self-motivated with strong organizational and written/oral communication skills – able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment with the ongoing drive for continuous improvement in all aspects of work.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able stand for long durations (8 hours minimum) and work directly with hardware on the floor.
• Must be comfortable stooping, bending, and standing.
• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
• 10% travel in support of launch and test of hardware.
• Flexibility in working hours to production and launch cadence.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:

• Manufacturing Engineer/Level I: $100,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year
• Manufacturing Engineer/Level II: $110,000.00 - $135,000.00/per year

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