Part-Time Weather Balloon Launch Technician

WindBorne Systems; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

WindBorne Systems in Virginia Beach, VA is hiring a part-time balloon launch contractor to support our weather forecasting mission. You will launch high-altitude balloons and assist with hardware assembly and field operations.

Evening and weekend shifts are common, with 10–20 hours per week. Candidates should be hands-on, safety-conscious, and comfortable collaborating with engineers to push our prototype hardware toward reliable data collection.

Qualifications

• Follows detailed processes and safety procedures with precision.
• Clear and timely communicator.
• Comfortable with computers and hands-on technical equipment — able to use a screwdriver and figure things out.
• Strong positive attitude and flexible personality; this team moves fast and needs people who execute.
• Greater technical aptitude than a standard launch role: able to debug engineering hardware and work through issues in the field.
• Comfortable working independently during evening shifts and interfacing with engineers who may be pushing hard on a deadline.
• Experience with compressed gas cylinders a plus, but not required.
• US citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Launch high-altitude weather balloons following established safety and operational procedures
• Operate and troubleshoot engineering prototype balloon units requiring more technical depth than a standard field launch role
• Collaborate closely with engineers during evening launches, maintaining a solutions-oriented attitude even at the end of a long shift
• Build launch rigs, balloon units, and other hardware. Hands-on assembly is a core part of this role and how our team stays close to the hardware
• Set up and break down launch sites, ensuring equipment is properly configured and secured
• Manage and maintain inventory of balloon supplies, compressed gas cylinders, and related equipment
• Perform routine equipment checks and flag maintenance or safety concerns
• Navigate the operational complexity of the launch site, which may involve coordination with the property owner, local city officials, and nearby airport authorities. This is not a simple field site and requires patience and process discipline
• Adapt to varying conditions and work well under ambiguity

Skills

Safety procedures

Clear communication

Hands-on hardware

Hardware debugging

Independent evening shifts

US citizenship

Tools

Screwdriver

Job description

WindBorne Systems in Virginia Beach, VA is hiring a part-time balloon launch contractor to support our weather forecasting mission. You will launch high-altitude balloons and assist with hardware assembly and field operations.

Evening and weekend shifts are common, with 10–20 hours per week. Candidates should be hands-on, safety-conscious, and comfortable collaborating with engineers to push our prototype hardware toward reliable data collection.