Welding Automation Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

Summary: SpaceX is actively developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. They are seeking a Welding Automation Engineer to create the Raptor engine’s combustion chamber and nozzle, focusing on automated welding systems to increase production throughput and improve weld consistency. Responsibilities: - Develop, deploy and iteratively improve automated welding systems for Raptor combustion chambers and nozzles, including manual and automated arc and beam welding processes - Design and optimize automated weld paths, parameters, and sequences for complex geometries in regenerative cooling channels and nozzle structures - Implement weld process control with real-time monitoring of arc characteristics, temperature, seam tracking, and penetration using advanced sensors - 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 - Develop fixture and material handling solutions that support high-precision welding in a wide variety of forms and materials - Drive continuous improvement of welding 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 Required Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline - 1+ years of experience with welding processes for complex 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 (robotic welding systems, PLCs, or real-time controllers) - Demonstrated success deploying robotic welding, laser welding, or vision-guided welding systems 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 welding rocket engine chambers, nozzles, or regeneratively cooled hardware - Expertise in welding of high-performance alloys (nickel and copper alloys, stainless steels) using GTAW, laser, or plasma processes - Background in real-time weld monitoring, adaptive control, and closed-loop feedback systems - Experience with offline robot programming, weld simulation software, and integrating welding cells into larger manufacturing lines - Familiarity with non-destructive evaluation tied to welding (ultrasonic, X-ray, CT, or thermography) - Knowledge of statistical process control, GD&T, and data-driven methods for weld quality prediction - 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: Automated welding systems, Manual arc welding, Beam welding, Welding process control, Python programming, PLC logic programming, Robotic welding systems, Laser welding, Vision-guided welding systems, Welding of high-performance alloys, GTAW welding process, Plasma welding process, Real-time weld monitoring, Adaptive control systems, Closed-loop feedback systems, Offline robot programming, Weld simulation software, Non-destructive evaluation, Ultrasonic testing, X-ray inspection, CT scanning, Thermography, Statistical process control, GD&T Benefits: Long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, Potential discretionary bonuses, Ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, 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