Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

Stratolaunch is seeking an additional hands-on Crew Chief (CC) to support the aircraft maintenance team in the efficient execution of the work scope performed to the aircraft; maintenance, preventive maintenance, inspections, and alterations. This role demands a highly skilled and certified A&P Mechanic with attention to detail and a commitment to upholding the standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for airworthiness and safety. The candidate should thrive in a high paced environment and be comfortable with the design, development, and test life cycle of rapid aerospace R&D.  This role will include daily interactions with engineers and managers, so strong communication and interpersonal skills are required. This position will work directly with the Director of Ground Operations, Ground Operations Manager, Engineering, Management, and Aircraft Maintenance Team.  
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES  
  • Ensure the aircraft is maintained in an airworthy condition in accordance with the inspection plan and adhering to established standards such as AC 43-13, technical manuals, blueprints, or sketches for acceptable systems installation methods, techniques, and practices
  • Take ownership of the aircraft and all quality of work performed
  • Responsible for ALL aspects of mission launch and recovery ground operations
  • Responsible for coordinating with engineering disciplines to draft the maintenance documentation and checklists for the aircraft that will be used during testing and will be submitted to the FAA as part of the airworthiness documentation package
  • Hands-on working CC providing leadership and mentorship to aircraft maintenance team. Set clear expectations for performance and accountability. Develop talent through training, coaching, and feedback.
  • Mentor and train Assistant Crew Chief (A/CC) in CC duties and responsibilities in order to maintain program continuity in the event the CC is unavailable.
  • Oversee day to day management of all areas of ground operations, direct activities and ensure that schedules, policies, and procedures are met while staying within quality standards and cost objectives
  • Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include training employees, planning, assigning, and directing work, appraising performance, addressing complaints, and resolving problems
  • Conduct on-the-job training (OJT) on systems and maintenance procedures such as, pre-flight, post flight inspections, flight controls, landing gear, electrical, avionics, and propulsion systems
  • Schedule daily crew meetings to include, but not limited to, relaying pertinent information, work scope, training, safety, and other sensitive and relevant company information to aid the aircraft maintenance team in proper performance of their duties
  • Responsible for overall safety of the team and aircraft during all ground operations
  • Ensure proper and timely entry of maintenance performed in the Aircraft Maintenance Discrepancy Log (MDL) and Electronic Maintenance database (Jira)
  • Complete logbook records in accordance with Company policy and FAA regulations
  • Sign-off required aircraft forms to Return aircraft to Service
  • Support any FAA activities as required
  • Assist in implementing FOD Control and Tool Control processes
  • Able to communicate at all levels of the organization and with customers as required
  • Communicate vehicle status on all aspects to Director of Ground Operations, Flight OPS, Engineering, and Aircraft Maintenance Team
  • Responsible for team welfare, morale and for providing a fun, yet professional working environment
  • Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity, and fulfillment of commitments
  
QUALIFICATIONS  
  • Possess a working knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations and airworthiness requirements.
  • Possess a working knowledge of aircraft factory modifications, service bulletins, inspection program requirements, vendor information and all other procedures, publications and general information pertaining to aircraft
  • Knowledge of all systems e.g. electrical, pneumatic, hydraulics, landing gear, engines.
  • Proven leadership, organizational and interpersonal skills
  • Strong problem solving and analytical skills
  • Must have strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Have a working knowledge of Jira preferred
  • Proficient knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance
  • Must be willing to work a flexible work schedule
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE  
  • Current FAA Airframe and Power Plant License
  • 3-5 years experience in leadership and management of flight-line & maintenance operations (preferred)
  • 7+ years of experience in aircraft systems fabrication, installation, and maintenance (preferred)
  • $50.00-$71.25 Hourly 
Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable  
  • This position is located in Mojave, Ca.
  • This position may require travel to offsite locations depending on aircraft dispatch location

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Benefits and our location:

  • Relocation eligible to local area – Mojave, CA
  • 9/80 schedule
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to the IRS annual limit
  • Tuition reimbursement

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located 95 miles north of Los Angeles. To outsiders it may seem like it is the middle-of-nowhere, but it offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California’s best attractions and landmarks. Hikers will find themselves within a 2-3 hours distance of some of the best state and national parks, including Yosemite and Sequoia in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Skiers will delight in being closely distanced to world-class resorts at Mammoth Mountain, Mountain High, and Big Bear. Beachgoers can find plenty of sand, sun, and sunsets at both Southern and Central California beaches like Ventura, Huntington, Santa Monica, and Pismo. The area also offers plenty of rural area for off-roading and horseback riding enthusiasts. 

Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers. 

Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.

Applicants must be a US Person to be considered for this role- 

To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in 22 C.F.R. 120.67, which includes (a) U.S. citizens; (b) U.S. nationals; (c) U.S. lawful permanent residents; (d) persons granted refugee status; and (e) persons granted asylum.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.  Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law:
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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