Manufacturing Structures Instructor

Virgin Galactic is seeking a highly motivated CONTRACT Manufacturing Structures Instructor to support our Training and Development team in Mesa, Arizona. Guided by our values, “Safety above All,” we proactively manage the risks inherent in human spaceflight through our daily actions in the design and assembly efforts.

Primary tasks will be associated with educating and preparing team members for the unique bonding and assembly processes used in the production of our flight assets. Through effective instruction and hands‑on training, you will ensure that technicians are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform setting up assembly fixtures, drilling, shimming and sealing, fastener installation, trimming/fitting of components, and other dynamic and exciting spacecraft manufacturing operations.

• Develop and deliver engaging training programs focused on composite and metallic airframe assembly processes.
• Instill high confidence in the use of precision measuring equipment, gap mapping and shimming.
• Instruct team members on the correct and safe use of shop tools and machinery, including hand drills, automatic drilling units, die grinders, riveting tools
• Teach proper drilling techniques for composite and metal structures, including stack‑ups of dissimilar materials.
• Provide training on the installation and removal of various fastener types (e.g., Rivets (pull‑type/solid), Hi‑Lite, Hi‑Lok, Composi‑Lok).
• Educate trainees on reading and interpreting technical drawings, and digital models and how they relate to adherence to process specifications and procedures.
• Ensure trainees understand and adhere to safety protocols, including Foreign Object Debris (FOD) prevention and regulatory compliance.
• Assess trainee performance and provide constructive feedback to ensure mastery of skills.
• Collaborate with team leaders and other instructors to continuously improve training content and delivery methods.
• Maintain accurate training records and support certification processes as required.
• Serve as a technical resource for troubleshooting and repair concepts during training sessions.

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of three years of experience in aircraft fabrication and assembly or equivalent industry experience.
• Strong hands‑on background in precision manufacturing environments.
• Proficient in using and teaching specialized tools and equipment for aircraft assembly and repair.
• Ability to clearly explain technical concepts and procedures to diverse audiences.
• Skilled in using computer applications to deliver and track training programs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Experience in developing training materials and conducting classroom and hands‑on instruction.
• Familiarity with current manufacturing practices and willingness to teach cutting‑edge spacecraft manufacturing techniques.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and ability to incorporate them into training.
• Strong commitment to safety and ability to instill safety‑first behaviors in trainees.
• Ability to adapt teaching methods to different learning styles and skill levels.
• Knowledge of composite layup and repair techniques: