TARS - Site Laborer

QinetiQ US; Deming (NM); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in defense and technology is seeking a Site Laborer to support aerostat operations for the Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System. Responsibilities include equipment maintenance, pre-launch operations, and performing various physical tasks. Ideal candidates will have a strong focus on safety, a flexible schedule for shift work, and a willingness to contribute to the team's success.

Qualifications

• 0-3 years' experience in mechanical maintenance, or relevant degrees may substitute experience.
• Ability to obtain flight operator certification.
• Willingness to work in a 24/7 shift environment.

Responsibilities

• Supporting aerostat pre-launch, launch, ascent, transition, station keeping, and recovery activities.
• Loading and unloading trucks, moving supplies, cleaning and maintaining the operational area.

Skills

Mechanical maintenance

Physical fitness

Teamwork

Education

GED or High School Diploma

Job description

Company Overview

We are a world-class team of professionals delivering next-generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems across 50+ locations worldwide. Our work contributes to innovative research in sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US’s experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being part of QinetiQ US means contributing to the safety and security of our world. We partner with our customers to save lives, reduce risks, and maintain critical global infrastructure.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you are courageous and eager to tackle complex challenges, you will find a unique environment where diverse teams blend perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to solve problems. Our inclusive environment values authenticity, respect, and potential. We support your success with workplace flexibility, health and well-being initiatives, and opportunities to work with purpose, supporting your professional and personal growth.

Position Overview

QinetiQ US seeks an experienced Site Laborer with specific experience in supporting line handling operations for the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program uses aerostat systems to provide persistent surveillance across eight operational sites along the US Southern border, including locations in Puerto Rico, Florida, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.

The successful candidate will have experience managing aerostat flight operations on platforms similar in size to TARS aerostats. Responsibilities include supporting aerostat pre-launch, launch, ascent, transition, station keeping, and recovery activities. Secondary duties include performing equipment maintenance on aerostat and radar systems and supporting site operations such as security, landscaping, and logistics. Key responsibilities include:

Responsibilities

The Laborer performs tasks requiring physical effort and basic skills, including:

• Loading and unloading trucks and other conveyances, moving supplies and materials, and organizing storage or bins.
• Collecting refuse and salvageable materials, digging, filling, and tamping earth excavations.
• Leveling ground with tools, shoveling concrete and snow, cleaning culverts and ditches, cutting trees, brush, and grass, operating power lawnmowers, moving heavy furniture and equipment, spreading sand and salt on icy surfaces, and collecting leaves and trash.

Required Qualifications

• GED or High School Diploma.
• 0-3 years’ experience in mechanical maintenance; an Associate or Bachelor of Science degree in a technical discipline may substitute experience.
• Ability to obtain flight operator certification.
• Valid U.S. Driver’s license.
• Fluent in English (reading, writing, speaking).
• Willing to work in a 24/7 shift environment, with flexibility for various shifts.
• Proof of U.S. residency.
• Physical ability to perform walking, standing, stooping, bending, twisting, crawling, reaching, lifting (up to 80 lbs), sitting, and working in confined spaces or at heights.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience operating aerostats of any size.
• Successful completion of the Aerostat basic training course.

Company EEO Statement

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the employment process due to a medical condition or disability, please contact [e-mail] or call [phone] Opt. 4 with your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.