Sr. Manufacturing Technician, Structures

Virgin Galactic is seeking a highly motivated Senior Structures Technician to support our Manufacturing team in Mesa. 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 the unique bonding and assembly processes used in the production of our spaceships air frame. This position will involve setting up assembly fixturing, drilling, fay sealing, fastener installation, trimming/fitting of components, and other dynamic and exciting spacecraft manufacturing operations. Maintain focus on timeliness and execution of tasks and deliverables every day. Support the company strategy by holding ourselves and one another accountable for getting the work done.

• 4/10 Onsite Monday through Thursday Day Shift (6:00am – 4:30pm)

• 4/10 Onsite Monday through Thursday Night Shift (4:00pm – 2:30am)
• 4/10 Onsite Thursday through Sunday Day Shift (6:00am – 4:30pm

• Assemble Composite parts and assemblies of varying complexities and sizes
• Ability to safely and correctly Utilize Shop Tools/Machinery to include drills, die grinders, and calipers
• Ability to safely and correctly drill a variety of hole sizes in both composite and metal structures, including stack-ups of dissimilar materials
• Working hands‑on with multiple fastener types including, but not limited to;
  Hi-Lite, Hi-Lok, Composi‑Lok
• Hands‑on aircraft manufacturing experience with both composite and metallic airframes
• Adhere to set directions and guidelines from team leader to support collaboration across teams to complete project
• Provide input of technical and operational knowledge in the assessment and repair/maintenance recommendations in support of the program assigned
• Work on manufacturing assignments that are moderately difficult, requiring judgment in resolving issues or in making recommendations
• Ensure quality and efficiency of installations, including troubleshooting and may provide guidance in troubleshooting processes and concepts
• Adhere to assembly instructions to ensure accurate completion of complex project assemblies
• Continuously practice safety behavior and Foreign Object Debris (FOD) awareness/prevention; adhere to regulatory protocols and rules
• Work collaboratively to achieve goals and/or complete assigned tasks

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of three years of experience with aircraft fabrication and assembly required or equivalent industry
• Hands‑on experience in a precision yet manual manufacturing setting strongly preferred
• Understanding and familiarity with multiple types of fasteners
• Knowledge of proper drill speeds and feeds for materials being worked
• Understanding of hole angularity and the importance of hole tolerances
• Proficient in using specialized tools and equipment to assemble and or repair aircraft
• Proficient in identifying, installing, and removing common aircraft fasteners
• Demonstrated ability to use computer applications to follow manufacturing work instructions
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, and/or models on paper or digital

• Knowledge of applying current manufacturing practices and willingness to learn cutting edge spacecraft manufacturing techniques and /or Airframe & Power plant (A&P) training
• Hands‑on experience in a precision yet manual manufacturing setting strongly preferred
• Use of hand drills, power feed drills (PFD), Jiffy/E-Tech tools, Setti Tec preferred
• Demonstrate willingness to adjust thinking and behavior
• Knowledge of providing quality repairs of malfunctioning systems
• Ability to collaborate on technical projects with fellow…