SpaceWrench (A&P Mechanic), Avionics Technician

Virgin Galactic; Truth or Consequences (NM); On-site; USD 64,235 - 90,235; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Comprehensive medical benefits

401(k) plan

Job summary

Virgin Galactic is seeking a mid-level experienced Avionics Technician/A&P Technician in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, to support commercial space operations. This is a hands-on role requiring attention to detail and existing aerospace experience.

The candidate will be responsible for maintenance on Space Flight System vehicles, utilizing avionics test equipment and ensuring the aircraft returns to service correctly. Relocation assistance is provided for qualified candidates.

Qualifications

• Strong working knowledge of Avionic systems and their operation.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot problems.
• Ability to assume responsibility for policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance and repair work on Space Flight System vehicles.
• Utilize avionics test equipment and hand tools.
• Return aircraft to service after maintenance.

Skills

Avionic systems troubleshooting

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

A valid FAA approved Airframe and Powerplant license

Minimum 2 years of college level education preferred

Job description

Virgin Galactic (VG) www.VirginGalactic.com is seeking a mid-level experienced Avionics Technician/A&P Technician (Space Wrench) to support our commercial space operations department. The candidate must have a desire to learn something new, enthusiasm for the new space industry and be able to mix existing aerospace experience with Spaceline maintenance development. This role is for a hands‑on person with great attention to detail and excellent people skills. This is a full‑time position at Virgin Galactic’s aerospace facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Relocation assistance available.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for accomplishing assigned maintenance, preventive maintenance and repair work on the Space Flight System vehicles.
• Checks, dismantles, adjusts, overhauls, repairs, fabricates, removes and installs all parts of aircraft, including propulsion systems (turbine & rocket), avionics equipment & instruments, fuel systems, ECS systems, life support systems and mechanical systems and hydraulic systems.
• Performs machine tool work and/or composite repair work in connection with the above mechanic maintenance work.
• Properly utilize avionics test equipment and associated hand tools to perform systems test/maintenance and keep abreast of new and advanced test equipment as well as the use of such equipment.
• Shall be required to return an aircraft to service after maintenance had been performed as allowed by the Spaceline GMM and the privileges of the airframe and powerplant license.
• Shall be required to complete and sign work records in connection with work performed.
• Inspects aircraft, parts, sub‑assemblies and completed assemblies.
• Assist with development and improvement of maintenance manual definition for vehicle systems and structures.
• Assist with the continual enhancement of the Spaceline GMM.
• Will be required to, but not limited to, work on base maintenance type workloads for the Spaceline vehicles.
• The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Required Skills And Experience

• A valid FAA approved Airframe and Powerplant license (A&P License).
• A valid passport and able to obtain a driver’s license.
• Firm grasp of procedures applicable to the various phases of maintenance.
• Must have strong working knowledge of Avionic systems and their operation and the proven ability to troubleshoot problems.
• Willing to travel and be on‑call.
• Qualified to obtain Air Operations Area (AOA) access.
• The ability to assume responsibility for the administration of policies and procedures.
• Demonstrated aptitude to work under pressure and thrive in a fast‑paced environment.
• Display’s maturity of action and judgment.
• Good communication skills.

Preferred Skills And Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 2 years of college level education preferred.
• Certifications or specialized training with application to aerospace/aviation technologies.
• Graduated from a technical college or other recognized apprenticeship program.
• Minimum 3 years line maintenance experience, 5‑10 years experience is preferred.
• Experience on narrow body and/or business jet aircraft.
• Experience with composite aircraft (commercial or military aerospace application).
• Experience with rocket systems and associated solid and/or liquid propellants.

Physical And/or Additional Requirements

• Work all shifts and available for overtime as well as weekends when needed.
• Travel 25% or more of the time.
• Stand for extended periods – 8 hours min.
• Stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces – 3+ hours min.
• Physically able to handle items weighing up to 40lbs (unassisted).

The annual U.S. base salary range for this full‑time position is $64,235.00–$90,235.00. 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.