Lead Technician, Materials - Processes - Structural Test

About Otto Aerospace

Fort Worth, TX

Otto Aerospace is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and an improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aerospace designs world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivers groundbreaking aircraft and economic performance.

Reporting to the Manager – Materials, Processes, and Structural Test, the Lead Technician – Materials, Processes, and Structural Test supports the execution of structural and materials testing in a dynamic aerospace lab environment. This role is responsible for hands-on test setup, instrumentation, and data collection/reduction. The Lead Technician will manufacture and inspect composite test articles and build structural test equipment and setups.

As the technical lead for day-to-day lab operations, this role mentors junior technicians and ensures that all test activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with internal procedures and regulatory requirements.

• Manufacture and inspect composite test articles in accordance with engineering drawings, process specifications, and quality standards
• Assemble structural equipment and test setups, including fixturing, load paths, and support structures for static and fatigue testing
• Set up and execute structural and materials tests, including static, fatigue, and environmental per test plans and procedures
• Install and verify instrumentation such as strain gauges, thermocouples, and displacement sensors
• Operate test equipment including hydraulic actuators, load frames, data acquisition systems, and environmental chambers
• Perform real-time monitoring and post-test data reduction to deliver clean, traceable datasets to engineering teams
• Support FAA conformity inspections and maintain documentation for test article traceability
• Lead daily lab operations, including equipment readiness, calibration checks, and safety compliance
• Mentor and train junior technicians in test procedures, instrumentation techniques, and lab best practices
• Collaborate with engineers to troubleshoot test setups and ensure test objectives are met
• Maintain lab cleanliness, organization, and inventory of tools, fixtures, and consumables
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to test efficiency, safety, and data quality

Education

• Associate’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience

Experience

• 5+ years’ experience in an aerospace-related structural or materials test lab
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, test plans, and technical procedures
• Proficiency in installing and troubleshooting test instrumentation (including bonded skin gages) and data acquisition systems
• Demonstrated experience in composite specimen fabrication, layup, curing, and inspection
• Strong mechanical aptitude, as well as experience with fixturing and test rig assembly
• Experience with hydraulic systems preferred
• Familiarity with FAA conformity processes and aerospace test documentation practices
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication and leadership skills with a collaborative mindset
• Continuous learning mindset

Required Skills

• Active Listening
• Critical Thinking
• Organization
• Problem Solving
• Self-Motivation
• Teamwork and Team Building
• Strong Business Communication

This position will be onsite at our Ft Worth, TX facility. It will eventually transition to our new headquarters in Jacksonville, FL in 1-3 years.

Otto Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success.