Welding Engineer, Combustion Devices Manufactur...

@ SpaceX

Welding Engineer, Combustion Devices Manufacturing

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 technologies to enable human life on Mars.

Role Overview

This position within the Raptor Combustion Devices team focuses on amplifying welding capabilities through development, implementation, and optimization of production processes for engine subassemblies and components. You will work closely with multiple stakeholders to support welding projects essential for Raptor reliability and production rate.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and qualify various welding processes including electron beam, laser beam, gas tungsten arc, and orbital tube welding.
• Support welding machine operations, guiding manufacturing engineers and welders in a fast-paced production environment.
• Maintain oversight of complex assets such as electron beam and laser welders, including training and maintenance.
• Collaborate with design, tooling, automation, and development engineers to enhance manufacturability of welded designs.
• Conduct root cause analysis with design, manufacturing, and materials engineering to address welding/process failures.
• Work with NDE personnel to assess weld quality and implement innovative non-destructive evaluation techniques.
• Innovate welding technologies and drive automation to meet high production targets and quality standards.

Basic and Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• 1+ years hands-on fabrication, manufacturing, or testing experience with welded assemblies.
• Preferred: Masters degree in welding engineering or related field and hands-on experience with nickel-based alloys, stainless steel, and copper welding.
• Familiarity with various welding processes, robot programming, tooling design, and weld strength testing methodologies.
• Experience with root cause analysis and corrective actions using metallographic and mechanical testing techniques.

Additional Requirements

This is a hands-on role requiring long durations of standing, working directly with hardware, occasional travel, long hours, or weekend work.

Compensation & Benefits

Base salary varies by level: Level I ($95,000 - $115,000/year) and Level II ($110,000 - $130,000/year), plus long-term incentives, stock options, medical coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and more.

ITAR and Equal Opportunity

Applicants must meet U.S. Government export regulations requirements. SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to merit-based hiring.

Key skills/competency

• Welding
• Combustion
• Manufacturing
• Process Development
• Automation
• Root Cause Analysis
• NDE
• Technical Oversight
• Design Collaboration
• ITAR Compliance