Weather Balloon Launch Operator Chatham MA

Weather Balloon Launch Operator (Chatham, MA)

Urban Sky is a venture-backed aerospace startup that pioneers utilization of the stratosphere and reimagines the way humans view and analyze the earth. We design, build, operate, and sell stratospheric balloon systems, and the data we collect supports a wide range of applications, from real-time wildfire monitoring to urban mapping.

Our team consists of engineers, makers, developers, and doers who believe in the power of human potential when passion meets utility within a small, supportive team. At Urban Sky we strive to create a team culture grounded in candor, inclusion, respect and empowerment.

We aim to build the next chapter of stratospheric history in Denver and are seeking self-starting, open-minded, and hard-working team members.

About The Role:

Urban Sky is seeking a Weather Balloon Launch Operator to support our Flight Operations team as part of a pilot program launching high‑altitude weather balloons at site locations in Chatham, MA.

The pilot requires two launches per day (morning and evening) over a 199‑day period. You will be responsible for the safe, accurate and timely execution of each launch, including equipment preparation, balloon inflation, adherence to procedures, data collection and communication with the broader operations team.

Key Functions:

• Launch Operations: Prepare, fill and launch high‑altitude weather balloons in accordance with detailed procedures and safety protocols.
• Equipment Operation & Maintenance: Operate and maintain gas cylinders, inflation systems, radiosondes/payloads and ground support equipment.
• Site Management: Maintain a clean and organized launch site, including managing temporary structures such as storage containers or portable shelters.
• Communication & Documentation: Collect and log launch parameters, weather conditions and flight data using computer‑based tools.
• Field Presence & Safety: Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, exercising sound judgment in navigating field hazards and respecting private property near launch sites.
• Schedule Coordination: Collaborate with other launch operators to maintain the twice‑daily launch cadence across the 199‑day pilot.

Qualifications &

Required Skills:

• Experience handling compressed gases and working with gas cylinders, pressure regulators and inflation systems.
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed procedures and safety checklists in a technical or field environment.
• Manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude for handling delicate balloon materials, payloads, radiosondes and small tools.
• Physical capability to work outdoors for extended periods and to lift and move gas cylinders and equipment weighing up to 50lbs.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications for data entry, logging and communication.
• Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills for coordinating with team members, providing status updates and documenting operations.

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor’s degree in a technical field, trade school certification, or equivalent work experience in aerospace, field operations or instrumentation preferred.

Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Must be located within commuting distance of specified launch site (Chatham, MA) or able to travel daily to the launch site for the duration of the 199‑day pilot.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes early morning and evening shifts, weekends and holidays to support continuous launch operations.
• Base pay is $24 – $32 per hour (as a 1099 contractor), commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Urban Sky is an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity.