Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
Stratolaunch is developing an air-launch platform to contribute to high-speed research and development. To achieve these great efforts, Stratolaunch needs an Fabrication Shop Lead.
The Lead (Composite Structures) will stay informed with manufacturing activities associated with their assigned areas. The Lead will direct manufacturing activities associated with their area of the build while understanding how it impacts one assigned area to the next. This position will assist in providing coordination between all areas of the build to achieve program milestones and goals. The Lead helps to facilitate high levels of production and work efficiency by teaching/training, mentoring, guiding their team, and delegating work. This role will help motivate and support program personnel in the achievement of shared goals, with demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and credibility.
Duties and Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
- Work directly with the Crew Chie/Vehicle lead, Engineering, Program Planning, Quality Assurance, and Sr. Manufacturing Manager to ensure work is accomplished to the intent of the technical requirement as well as according to program and company schedules
- Directly manage a crew of individuals within the same discipline. Support performance management and absence management within the team. Determine areas of training needed and partner with HR on progressive discipline process when needed.
- Partner with the Manufacturing Admin to ensure timecard are completed in a timely manner with the correct project codes.
- Work together in program leadership roles in absence of Crew Chief/Vehicle Lead
- Maintain a professional demeanor, to include: give undivided attention to a conversation, be aware of own body language and facial expressions, practice and maintain effective listening skills
- Report both positive and negative personnel issues to the Crew Chief and/or Sr. Manufacturing Manager if support is needed. Hold work group accountable (e.g., ensuring proper breaks and meal periods, issues with work quality, recognition for dedicated efforts, attendance, etc.)v
- Performance evaluations twice a year and solicit peer feedback on a regular cadence to support performance feedback.
- Help to proactively identify manufacturing set-backs and work with each other, Crew Chief/vehicle Lead, other discipline leads, and with Engineering if needed. Maintain shop organization, help identify shop consumable shortages ahead of time, while promoting and implementing shop cleanliness.
- Participate in leadership development curriculum when needed
- Help promote company philosophies to new employees during onboarding process and lead by example.
- Monitor and help improve manufacturing in the area; practice Question Never Defend and seek to understand why /what is happening.
- Mentor, train and assist assigned shop personnel in proper work procedures and practices as required
- Work with planning to develop a clear weekly set of tasks, milestones, and objectives for your team that supports program/company schedule. This may include but is not limited to the following: Planning Work durations for individual tasks, planning and coordinating within other areas of the program in order to deconflict when needed, consult with engineering as required etc. The overall schedule for the program/company is to be provided by the planning department.
- Stay in constant communication with your crew, crew chief, and leadership throughout each day
- Maintain flexibility and be able to adjust to the changing needs of the program and/or company which could be but not limited to: OT when needed, flexible work schedule etc.
Essential Job Functions:
- Standing for prolonged periods of time
- Stooping, bending, climbing, kneeling, crouching, crawling, balancing, reaching, pulling, working at elevated heights
- Occasional pushing of heavy tools and tables (75-100 + lbs., with assistance)
- Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50+ lbs.
- Work with composite material such as resin systems, carbon and fiberglass; work closely with chemicals, epoxy resin systems, and foam products
- Work on varied work surfaces, environments, including but not limited to working in busy shop environment as well as in or on aircraft structures
- Required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment for assigned task
- Clearly communicate verbally and in writing (e.g., active listening skills, well-postured verbal and non-verbal skills)
- Maintain professional and positive posture / attitude
Education/Experience/Certifications
- Knowledgeable and competent in Stratolaunch manufacturing/assembly processes
- IPC-620B and J Standard qualified
- Good communication skills, to include listening, reading and following verbal and written instructions
- Ability to work independently with minimum supervision
- Ability to adapt to configuration changes common in research and development
- Must have flexibility to adjust to the changing needs of the company
- Willingness and ability to work in a fast paced research and development environment and a team atmosphere; able to work under pressure
- Ability to plan work sequence of operation
- Must have demonstrated strong manufacturing skills
- Must have proven leadership skills
- Strong organizational, multi-tasking and time management skills
- Excellent problem solving skills and must be solution-oriented
Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
- $47.20-$61.88
- This position is located in Mojave, CA
Benefits and our location(s):
- 9/80 schedule
- Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
- Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
- 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
- Tuition reimbursement
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located 95 miles north of Los Angeles. To outsiders it may seem like it is the middle-of-nowhere, but it offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California’s best attractions and landmarks. Hikers will find themselves within a 2-3 hours distance of some of the best state and national parks, including Yosemite and Sequoia in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Skiers will delight in being closely distanced to world-class resorts at Mammoth Mountain, Mountain High, and Big Bear. Beachgoers can find plenty of sand, sun, and sunsets at both Southern and Central California beaches like Ventura, Huntington, Santa Monica, and Pismo. The area also offers plenty of rural area for off-roading and horseback riding enthusiasts.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf