Sr. Manufacturing Technician, Structures

Virgin Galactic • Gilbert, AZ

6d • $53,040 - $72,665 • Onsite

About The Position

Virgin Galactic is seeking a highly motivated Senior Structures Technician to support the Manufacturing team in Mesa. Guided by the value “Safety above All,” the team proactively manages the risks inherent in human spaceflight through daily actions in design and assembly. The role focuses on bonding and assembly processes used in producing spacecraft airframes, including setting up assembly fixtures, drilling, fay sealing, installing fasteners, trimming and fitting components, and other spacecraft manufacturing operations. The technician is expected to maintain timely execution of work, uphold accountability, and support company strategy. The current schedule is onsite Monday through Thursday, 6:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. A future schedule may be onsite Monday through Thursday, 4:00 p.m.–2:30 a.m., or Thursday through Sunday, 6:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The annual U.S. base salary range is $53,040–$72,665. Compensation offered depends on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience, and may include other forms of pay and benefits. Employment at the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport facility is contingent on obtaining and maintaining a TSA-authorized security badge, including initial and annual mandatory background checks. Applicants must meet applicable U.S. Government export-control requirements.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least three years of aircraft fabrication and assembly experience, or equivalent industry experience.
• Understanding of multiple types of fasteners.
• Knowledge of appropriate drill speeds and feeds for the materials being worked.
• Understanding of hole angularity and the importance of hole tolerances.
• Proficiency with specialized tools and equipment used to assemble or repair aircraft.
• Proficiency 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 in paper or digital formats.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Familiarity with personal protective equipment (PPE).

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience in a precision, manual manufacturing setting.
• Knowledge of current manufacturing practices and willingness to learn advanced spacecraft manufacturing techniques and/or Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) training.
• Experience using hand drills, power feed drills (PFD), Jiffy/E-Tech tools, or Setti Tec.
• Willingness to adjust thinking and behavior.
• Knowledge of providing quality repairs to 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 timely, respectful manner and remain open to other ideas.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing philosophies and tools.
• Ability to attend to detail while maintaining a broader view.
• Strong safety-focused thinking, good housekeeping, tool control, and awareness of proper handling of hazardous materials and chemicals.

Responsibilities

• Assemble composite parts and assemblies of varying complexity and size.
• Safely and correctly use shop tools and machinery, including drills, die grinders, and calipers.
• Drill a variety of hole sizes in composite and metal structures, including stacks of dissimilar materials.
• Work hands-on with multiple fastener types, including Hi-Lite, Hi-Lok, and Composi-Lok.
• Apply hands-on aircraft manufacturing experience to composite and metallic airframes.
• Follow directions and guidelines from the team leader and collaborate across teams to complete projects.
• Provide technical and operational input when assessing and recommending repairs or maintenance for the assigned program.
• Complete moderately difficult manufacturing assignments, using judgment to resolve issues or make recommendations.
• Ensure the quality and efficiency of installations, troubleshoot issues, and potentially guide troubleshooting processes and concepts.
• Follow assembly instructions to accurately complete complex project assemblies.
• Practice safety and Foreign Object Debris (FOD) awareness and prevention, and follow regulatory protocols and rules.
• Collaborate with others to achieve goals and complete assigned tasks.

Benefits

• A range of medical, financial, and other benefits, depending on the position offered.
• Other forms of pay, such as a bonus or long-term incentive, may be provided as part of the compensation package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED