Associate Test Technician

We are seeking an associate test technician with a strong background in structural airframe testing and systems testing. The test technician in this role will be responsible for the setup and execution of qualification tests for the structure, mechanical systems, and avionics components used in our Spaceships and Motherships. Test technicians actively collaborate with the engineering team to overcome technical challenges, ensure requirements are met, and provide feedback to the engineering team. You will be responsible for test execution and the test data you generate will support the verification and substantiation of current and future vehicles.  

The Associate Test Technician in our Irvine, CA location 5x per week. 

• This is an entry level technician position.
• Must possess excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills.
• A hands-on mentality and an emphasis on continuous improvement is needed to support the airframe and systems test lab successfully.
• Strong safety work ethic – recognizes the importance of properly handing hazardous materials and tools, as well as working around highly energized systems.
• Ability to trouble shoot and solve problems.
• Competent with most hand tools.
• Limited familiarity with test equipment, processes, or specialized tools.
• Basic computer software proficiency, preferably including laboratory or industrial applications.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and documentation.
• Execute other duties as required by Virgin Galactic senior leadership to support company and program objectives.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Experience in a test lab environment or in an aerospace, manufacturing, or similar highly controlled environment.
• Experience executing development, acceptance, and qualification tests of aerospace structure and systems.
• Familiarity with electronics, pneumatics, and hydraulics used in aerospace systems.
• Experience with engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and instrumentation layout.
• Familiarity with operation of saws, lathes, mills, and other hand tools.
• Experience conducting environmental testing per DO-160 or MIL-STD-810; including vibration, thermal, icing, waterproofness, and proof pressure testing.
• Experience fabricating test fixtures, installing instrumentation, configuring pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
• Experience with test instrumentation such as pressure transducers, strain gages, string potentiometers, and load cells.
• Familiarity with data acquisition, experience with NI LabVIEW is preferred.
• Familiarity with precision measurement tools.
• Experience with mechanical assemblies, drawings, and parts lists.
• Familiar with quality assurance processes, including non-destructive testing methods.
• Computer software proficiency, preferably including laboratory or industrial applications, and technical writing skills.

Physical and/or Additional Requirements

• Must be able to work all shifts and be available for overtime as well as weekends when needed.
• Must be able to travel as needed (10% Travel expected)
• Must be able to stand for extended periods – 6 hours min.
• Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Medium work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $41,600.00–$57,200.00. 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, gender identity, 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.