Sr. Structures Technician

Virgin Galactic is seeking a highly motivated Senior Structures Technician to support our Manufacturing team in Mesa. Guided by our values, “Safety above All”, we proactively manage the risks inherent in human spaceflight through our daily actions in the design and assembly efforts.

Primary tasks will be associated with the unique bonding and assembly processes used in the production of our spaceships air frame.  This position will involve setting up assembly fixturing, drilling, fay sealing, fastener installation, trimming/fitting of components, and other dynamic and exciting spacecraft manufacturing operations. Maintain focus on timeliness and execution of tasks and deliverables every day. Support the company strategy by holding ourselves and one another accountable for getting the work done.
Work Schedule:  4/10 Onsite Monday through Thursday Day Shift

Responsibilities

• Assemble Composite parts and assemblies of varying complexities and sizes 
• Ability to safely and correctly Utilize Shop Tools/Machinery to include drills, die grinders, and calipers
• Ability to safely and correctly drill a variety of hole sizes in both composite and metal structures, including stack-ups of dissimilar materials 
• Working hands-on with multiple fastener types including, but not limited to; Hi-Lite, Hi-Lok, Composi-Lok
• Hands‐on aircraft manufacturing experience with both composite and metallic airframes 
• Adhere to set directions and guidelines from team leader to support collaboration across teams to complete project
• Provide input of technical and operational knowledge in the assessment and repair/maintenance recommendations in support of the program assigned
• Work on manufacturing assignments that are moderately difficult, requiring judgment in resolving issues or in making recommendations
• Ensure quality and efficiency of installations, including troubleshooting and may provide guidance in troubleshooting processes and concepts
• Adhere to assembly instructions to ensure accurate completion of complex project assemblies
• Continuously practice safety behavior and Foreign Object Debris (FOD) awareness/prevention; adhere to regulatory protocols and rules
• Work collaboratively to achieve goals and/or complete assigned tasks

Required Skills and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent 
• Minimum of three years of experience with aircraft fabrication and assembly required or equivalent industry
• Hands-on experience in a precision yet manual manufacturing setting strongly preferred 
• Understanding and familiarity with multiple types of fasteners
• Knowledge of proper drill speeds and feeds for materials being worked
• Understanding of hole angularity and the importance of hole tolerances
• Proficient in using specialized tools and equipment to assemble and or repair aircraft 
• Proficient in identifying, installing, and removing common aircraft fasteners 
• Demonstrated ability to use computer applications to follow manufacturing work instructions 
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, and/or models on paper or digital

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of applying current manufacturing practices and willingness to learn cutting edge spacecraft manufacturing techniques and /or Airframe & Power plant (A&P) training
• Hands-on experience in a precision yet manual manufacturing setting strongly preferred
• Use of hand drills, power feed drills (PFD), Jiffy/E-Tech tools, Setti Tec preferred
• Demonstrate willingness to adjust thinking and behavior
• Knowledge of providing quality repairs of malfunctioning systems
• Ability to collaborate on technical projects with fellow technicians, or interdepartmental functions to achieve goals or solve problems 
• Ability to communicate in a manner that is timely, respectful, and open to other ideas
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing philosophies and tools a plus
• Ability to get into the details, while maintaining a broader view
• Strong safety forward thinking, practice good housekeeping, tool control, recognizing the importance of properly handling hazardous materials, and chemicals
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Familiar with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $49,920.00–$68,640.00. 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 an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. We are making the dream of space travel a reality, delivering spaceflight at an unprecedented frequency, with the development of next generation space vehicles. 

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.