Talon Crew Chief

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 a Crew Chief (CC) to lead 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 Federal Aviation Regulations, technical manuals, blueprints, or sketches for acceptable systems installation methods, techniques, and practices
• Take ownership of the aircraft and all quality of work performed by Team members.
• Responsible for ALL aspects of mission launch and recovery ground operations Including adhering to schedule, manpower planning, ground operation execution, Documentation completion and quality control.
• 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 to maintain program continuity in the event the CC is unavailable.
• Mentor and arrange appropriate training by working with ground operations manager and ground operations director to create budgets and properly achieve training objectives.
• 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
• Responsible for team compliance of all FOD and tool control policies set forth by the company.
• 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 as they pertain to our op