Program Director, Flight Control Systems

Virgin Galactic is seeking a Program Director to lead both the strategy and tactical execution for flight control systems. This role will lead a team of engineers and program managers, manage multiple suppliers, and integrate with other development teams. The scope includes development and testing of the fly by wire flight control system, including flight control computers, actuators, pilot inceptors, control laws, and sensors. The responsibilities will span the entire lifecycle, from conceptual design to flight test and commercial operations. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience with aircraft or spacecraft flight control systems and / or avionics development.

Responsibilities:

• Deliver flight control system program commitments on schedule and budget while meeting technical objectives.

• Build, lead and mentor a team responsible for developing and delivering the Flight Control Systems for the next generation of Spaceships and Motherships.

• Manage the cost and schedule within planned budget.

• Create budget forecasts to support corporate and program planning.

• Responsible for the program and technical strategy, including make / buy decisions, risk management, supplier selection, etc.

• Represent the flight controls team and product to program and executive leadership.

• Integrate with other program teams, such as avionics, airframe, flight sciences, and flight test, to ensure successful execution of each team’s scope.

• Lead team through milestone reviews ensuring technical adequacy and programmatic success.

• Be a change agent for successfully removing roadblocks, and enabling efficient communication and coordination amongst various stakeholders.

Required Knowledge/Experience:

• Must have a B.S. or M.S. in an Engineering discipline from an accredited university.

• Has successfully led teams/products through product lifecycle, including requirements, design, qualification, and deployment.  

• Strong experience building and managing schedules and budgets for development programs.

• Experience managing supplier partners from RFI's to delivery. 

• Strong risk management and risk mitigation tools skillset

Preferred Skills:

• Understanding of systems engineering and design assurance processes for safety critical systems such as ARP-4754, DO-178, and / or DO-254 desired.

• 10+ years of experience in aerospace system development, integration, or test

The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $140,900.00–$225,500.00. The base pay actually offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience and take into account internal equity. Other forms of pay (e.g., bonus or long term incentive) may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. For more information regarding Virgin Galactic benefits, please visit https://vgcareers.virgingalactic.com/global/en/benefits

Who We Are

Virgin Galactic is transforming humanity’s relationship with space. By making it more open and accessible, we are connecting the world to the love, wonder and awe inspired by space travel, helping to create new opportunities for the benefit of life on Earth. Whether it’s supporting cutting-edge research missions for scientists and students, or offering life-changing experiences for the adventurers among us, Virgin Galactic is THE spaceline for Earth. Such an audacious vision requires a team as driven as they are curious - one capable of redefining the boundaries of what’s possible. 

Export Requirements 
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person (either a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a protected individual as defined 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or be able to obtain the required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The applicant must also not be included in the list of Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. See list here.

EEO Statement
Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Galactic is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. 

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
Virgin Galactic is committed to a Drug Free Workplace.  All applicants post offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies. This can include pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident related drug and alcohol testing. 

PHOENIX EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
For individuals seeking employment at our Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport facility, employment is contingent upon you obtaining and maintaining a TSA authorized security badge.  This includes initial and annual mandatory background checks that are governed by TSA, and conducted by the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport badging office.