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Propulsion Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PROPULSION TECHNICIAN (STARSHIP) The propulsion systems technician team serve as hardware build and test experts for Booster subassembly prop systems - Unique weldments and avionics subassemblies ...

PROPULSION TECHNICIAN (RAPTOR) Candidates should possess a combination of solid mechanical knowledge, hands-on experience and the willingness and ability to learn. The propulsion technician is ...

Propulsion Technician Location: Moriarty, NM Job Type: Full-Time, Non - Exempt Reports to: Propulsion Engineering Manager Who Are We: Sceye is a high-growth technology company, building the next ...

PROPULSION TECHNICIAN (RAPTOR) Candidates should possess a combination of solid mechanical knowledge, hands-on experience and the willingness and ability to learn. The propulsion technician is ...

PROPULSION TECHNICIAN (STARSHIP) The propulsion systems technician team serve as hardware build and test experts for Booster subassembly prop systems - Unique weldments and avionics subassemblies ...

Who We're Looking For We are seeking a skilled and hands-on Technician II - Propulsion to support the assembly, integration, testing, and fueling of spacecraft propulsion systems and components for ...

Who We're Looking For We are seeking a skilled and hands-on Technician II - Propulsion to support the assembly, integration, testing, and fueling of spacecraft propulsion systems and components for ...

Join team of technicians building and maintaining propulsion systems for hypersonic flight vehicles, including, but not limited to, liquid and hybrid rocket engines ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES * Build ...

Astro Mechanica is seeking a Propulsion Technician to join our growing manufacturing and prototyping team. The ideal candidate is a highly skilled hands-on builder who takes pride in crafting precise ...

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Propulsion Technician information

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$13

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How much do propulsion technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for propulsion technician in the United States is $23.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Propulsion Technician vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectPropulsion TechnicianAircraft Maintenance Technician
CredentialsFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification, specialized propulsion trainingFAA A&P certification, general aircraft maintenance training
Work EnvironmentAircraft engines, propulsion systems, aerospace facilitiesComplete aircraft systems, including engines, airframes, and avionics
Industry UsageMilitary, commercial, and private aerospace sectors focusing on propulsion systemsCommercial airlines, private aviation, and maintenance facilities

Propulsion Technicians specialize in aircraft engines and propulsion systems, often requiring specific certifications and working primarily on engines and propulsion components. Aircraft Maintenance Technicians have a broader scope, handling various aircraft systems. Both roles are essential in aviation maintenance but differ in focus and specialization.

How much does a propulsion technician make?

Propulsion technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They work in aerospace, military, or industrial settings, often requiring specialized skills in propulsion systems and safety protocols.

What is a propulsion technician?

Propulsion Technicians are skilled professionals who build, maintain, test, and repair propulsion systems, such as rocket engines, jet engines, or other devices that generate thrust for vehicles like aircraft and spacecraft. They work with complex mechanical and electronic systems to ensure engines operate safely and efficiently. Their responsibilities often include assembling propulsion components, conducting diagnostic tests, troubleshooting technical issues, and adhering to safety and quality standards. Propulsion Technicians are essential in aerospace, defense, and advanced transportation industries.

What are some typical challenges faced by a propulsion technician during engine testing and how can they be managed?

Propulsion Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected performance issues, maintaining precise safety protocols, and working under tight deadlines during engine testing. Addressing these challenges requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with engineers and other team members. Staying updated with the latest diagnostic tools and adhering to standard operating procedures are key strategies for managing these situations and ensuring both safety and efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a propulsion technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Propulsion Technician, you need a solid background in mechanical systems, propulsion theory, and troubleshooting, often supported by an associate degree or technical certification in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, engine test equipment, and maintenance management systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation and maintenance of complex propulsion systems.
More about Propulsion Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Propulsion Technician jobs? Cities with the most Propulsion Technician job openings:
What states have the most Propulsion Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Propulsion Technician jobs include:
Infographic showing various Propulsion Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,993 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Propulsion Technician (Starship)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$31 - $38/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

PROPULSION TECHNICIAN (STARSHIP)

The propulsion systems technician team serve as hardware build and test experts for Booster subassembly prop systems - Unique weldments and avionics subassemblies that provide increased performance and operational capability to Raptor and Super Heavy. You will build and test propulsion assemblies for maximum reliability that need to perform in extreme dynamic environments.

As a technician, you will be responsible for maintaining a high standard of build quality and ensuring your work scope is performed correctly. You will partner with engineers on the floor to develop booster prop subs production systems. Technicians in this role will be capable of understanding component functionality to be able to assist in troubleshooting or recognizing potential hazards/issues before they occur and helping to update work instructions/processes to reduce future issues and increase personnel safety.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Deliver state-of-the-art, high-quality propulsion
  • Collaborate with engineering and leadership to achieve component delivery rate in a reliable manner
  • Set the standard for a rigorous and efficient technician team by operating with high efficiency and utilization across a broad mix of products. Perform work according to procedures, specifications and work/test instructions, and communicate daily work completion to report to leadership
  • Execute daily precision manufacturing tasks, Assemble and fit-up subassemblies for fluid systems, including precision alignment, braze joints, fastener torquing, populating avionics connector pin-out with exact wire routing and crimping, conducting proof pressure testing on assemblies, and hi-pot electrical testing for insulation integrity
  • Troubleshoot failure modes and collaborate with design, tooling, quality, and engineering teams to resolve technical issues, recommend improvements to designs/instructions/processes for enhanced reliability, manufacturability, and production rates, and transition products from design to high-volume production 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 1+ years of experience working in a manufacturing/assembly, welding, or testing role OR completion from a relevant trade school

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • 3+ years of aerospace component testing experience
  • Trained in assembly or testing of propulsion, aviation or aerospace hardware
  • High pressure testing knowledge
  • High voltage testing knowledge
  • A&P license
  • Experience and knowledge operating brazement furnace
  • Experience working with thin-walled tubing
  • Experience working with Inconel, titanium, aluminum, nickel, and stainless steel
  • Knowledge of orbital tube welding (OTW)
  • Lean manufacturing (5S) knowledge and experience
  • High attention to detail in order to ensure safety and accuracy of testing procedures
  • Experience with pressure/temperature/flow measurement devices and mechanical/electrical systems
  • Strong mathematical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Basic computer experience
  • The ability to effectively communicate (verbal and written) with engineering and production teams at all levels of the business
  • The ability to work autonomously or as part of a team to achieve inspiring production goals

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to travel to other sites if needed
  • Must be able to lift 50lbs assisted and stand for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to work first shift (~4:00am - ~2:30PM) or second shift (~2:30PM - ~1:00AM)
  • Must be able to support overtime and weekend work requests

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 
Pay range:    
Propulsion Technician/Level 1: $23.00 - $27.00/hour  
Propulsion Technician/Level 2: $26.00 - $32.50/hour
Propulsion Technician/Level 3: $31.00 - $38.00/hour  

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.


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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US