Maintenance Program Lead – Spaceplane Operations

Dawn Aerospace; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Dawn Aerospace is seeking a Maintenance Controller to lead the maintenance systems, procedures, and staff authorisation framework for the Mk-II Aurora spaceplane. This leadership role sits within Flight Operations, coordinating maintenance planning, execution, documentation, and control in line with regulatory requirements and company standards.

You will drive the development and implementation of the maintenance programme, working with design engineers, and ensuring staff training and

Qualifications

• Strong leadership and ownership in maintenance operations.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills to coordinate across teams and with stakeholders.
• Experience with R&D and/or flight test environments is preferred.
• Prior experience with CAA Part 102 or equivalent uncrewed aircraft maintenance standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee maintenance of the Mk-II, scheduled and unscheduled, ensuring defects are investigated and rectified before flight release.
• Develop, enforce, and monitor maintenance standards and programme
• Coordinate ground operation activities during flight testing and maintenance tasks.
• Provide on-the-job training to maintenance staff and issue authorisations.
• Ensure records and tooling are maintained and that staff are trained, authorised, and competent.

Skills

Leadership

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Problem solving

Regulatory awareness

Stakeholder engagement

Flight test experience

Aerospace maintenance

Job description

Dawn Aerospace is seeking a Maintenance Controller to lead the maintenance systems, procedures, and staff authorisation framework for the Mk-II Aurora spaceplane. This leadership role sits within Flight Operations, coordinating maintenance planning, execution, documentation, and control in line with regulatory requirements and company standards.

You will drive the development and implementation of the maintenance programme, working with design engineers, and ensuring staff training and