Job Description

Overview

SpaceX is focused on developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. The Propulsion Technician for Raptor Turbopump Assembly will operate equipment, learn processes, and propose improvements to contribute to the creation of launch vehicles and spacecraft.

Responsibilities

  • Use precision calibrated tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, depth gauges, and calipers.
  • Perform work according to procedures, specifications, and test instructions.
  • Read and interpret technical drawings and follow detailed work instructions.
  • Use various mechanical tools without instruction.
  • Perform blending, filing, and shearing of sheet metal and casted piece parts.
  • Execute all manufacturing processes required to build engine subassemblies, including tack welding, fastener installation, precision cleaning, pressure testing, and general mechanical assembly.
  • Perform cryogenic and thermal part fitment and installs.
  • Fulfill dynamic balance operations.
  • Keep the stations and work environment clean, completing 5 tasks at end of shift.
  • Provide documented build feedback to leadership and engineering for process improvements.
  • Identify build blockers and effectively communicate them to leadership.
  • Support other production areas on an as-needed basis.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
  • 1+ years of experience in turbomachinery or other engine or rocket mechanical assembly.
  • Experience working on aircraft or rocket engines is preferred.
  • Experience working in an automotive or mechanic environment is preferred.
  • A&P license is strongly desired.
  • Able to operate pallet jacks, forklifts, cranes, and heavy equipment.
  • Strong mathematical, basic computer, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team and meet aggressive schedules.
  • Ability to rapidly change roles/responsibilities in a high-paced environment.
  • Proficient with computers and able to use MS Office.

Benefits

  • 401k
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • PTO

Additional Information

  • Must be able to work standard 10 hour shifts, 5 days a week with additional weekend support/overtime when needed.
  • Must be able to travel to other sites if needed.
  • Must be able to lift 35lbs unassisted and stand for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to work first shift (5:00am – 3:30PM).

Benefits

401k
Health Insurance
Dental
Vision
PTO

How this job compares in Hawthorne, CA

Pay in context

At roughly $31/hr, this posting comes in about 13% below the $35/hr median for welding jobs in Hawthorne, CA, where the middle half runs $31–$56/hr across 40 postings with published pay. Put another way, it pays more than about 10% of the comparable postings we have wage data for. That gap is worth raising directly — in a market this size there is normally room to negotiate toward the median, particularly if you already hold the certifications the posting asks for.

The local market in Hawthorne, CA

We're tracking 40 other active welding openings in Hawthorne, CA right now, from 5 different employers. 15 of them were added in the last week. Across California as a whole we're tracking 596 other active welding openings from 294 employers. A metro this active generally means you have real leverage — employers here are competing for the same welders. Browse every welding job in Hawthorne, or widen the search to California.

SpaceX currently has 33 other openings live in California, which is usually a sign of either steady growth or steady turnover — worth asking which in the interview.

The most active employers in California at the moment, by number of open welding reqs, are SpaceX (33), Aerotek (16), and Volt (16). Volume like that usually means either a genuine expansion or a staffing agency working several client sites — worth knowing which before you apply.

Within California, the best-paying metros we track by median hourly rate are Redondo Beach at $65/hr, Long Beach at $49/hr, and Santa Ana at $48/hr. If you can relocate or commute, that spread is worth factoring in.

Similar openings near Hawthorne, CA

Pay figures are medians computed from live postings in the Welding Pros index, not from survey data, and they move as employers post. Propulsion Technician (Raptor Turbopump Assembly) figures were last recalculated when this page was built.