Welding Automation Engineer, Chamber and Nozzle (Raptor)

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. WELDING AUTOMATION ENGINEER, CHAMBER AND NOZZLE (RAPTOR) SpaceX is seeking an engineer with deep expertise in automated welding 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 manual and automated welding systems that increase production throughput, improve weld consistency, and reduce defects while enabling rapid design iteration. This role sits at the intersection of propulsion engineering, weld engineering, with aspects of real-time process control, and data-driven quality systems. Your work will directly enable rapid iteration and high-volume production of Raptor chambers and nozzles. 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 BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline. 1+ years of experience with welding processes for complex metallic components PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 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 ADDITION