Manufacturing Automation Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

Summary: SpaceX is actively developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. They are seeking a Manufacturing Automation Engineer to create machines for building the Raptor engine's combustion chamber and nozzle, focusing on automating manufacturing processes to enhance production efficiency and quality. Responsibilities: - Develop, deploy and iteratively improve automated manufacturing systems for Raptor combustion chambers and nozzles, including robotic process automation and smart factory initiatives - Implement process control and in-situ monitoring for the specialized manufacturing processes required to build the chamber and nozzle components - Build and maintain data pipelines that capture manufacturing telemetry to enable statistical process control, predictive analytics, and machine learning models for defect reduction and process optimization - Design fixture and material handling solutions that support chamber/nozzle build and assembly while maintaining tight geometric tolerances - Drive continuous improvement of manufacturing automation through scripting (Python), PLC logic, and advanced process modeling to reduce cycle time and scrap rates - Partner closely with propulsion design, materials, production, and supply chain teams to convert new designs into robust, scalable processes, resolve nonconformances, and drive design changes that improve manufacturability, reliability, and performance - Establish version-controlled automation software with rigorous testing, ensuring manufacturing systems are reliable, repeatable, and safe Required Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline - 1+ years of experience automating manufacturing processes for metallic components - 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 Preferred Qualifications: - Strong programming skills in Python and experience with industrial automation (PLC, LabVIEW, Beckhof, Siemens, Fanuc, ABB, Kuka) - Demonstrated experience with robotic systems, machine vision, or real-time process control in a manufacturing environment - 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 with rocket engine chamber or nozzle manufacturing (regeneratively cooled hardware is highly desired) - Expertise in machining, welding, precision assembly, or heat treatments - Background in non-destructive inspection automation and closed-loop quality control - Experience with large-scale data collection from manufacturing processes and building predictive models for defect detection or process optimization - Familiarity with production systems and the unique challenges of scaling reusable rocket hardware - Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), precision metrology, and digital thread concepts - 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 Required Skills: Manufacturing automation, Python programming, PLC programming, LabVIEW, Beckhof, Siemens, Fanuc, ABB, Kuka, Robotic systems, Machine vision, Real-time process control, Rocket engine chamber manufacturing, Rocket engine nozzle manufacturing, Machining, Welding, Precision assembly, Heat treatments, Non-destructive inspection automation, Closed-loop quality control, Data collection from manufacturing processes, Predictive modeling for defect detection, Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), Precision metrology, Digital thread concepts Benefits: Long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, Potential discretionary bonuses, The ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, Access to a 401(k) retirement plan, Short and long-term disability insurance, Life insurance, Paid parental leave, Various other discounts and perks, 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10 or more paid holidays per year, Paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law