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 seeking a Director of Ground Operations to lead the aircraft maintenance and flight line operations supporting Stratolaunch's unique fleet of highly experimental aircraft. This position reports to the Sr Director of Mission Operations and will ensure the organizational capabilities, resources, and skillsets are in place to ensure safe, enduring and improving aircraft ground and launch-support operations. This position is responsible for providing leadership and direction to the Ground Operations organization.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES Oversee management of all areas of Ground Operations to ensure that schedules, policies, and procedures are safely met while maintaining quality standards, cost and business objectives.
Employ metrics, risk management, and project management methodologies to ensure successful execution of all Ground Operations tasks and integration with company project management practices.
Drive Ground Operations efficiency through innovative training, procedure development, and streamlining of maintenance processes, using Root Cause Analysis, Lean, Six Sigma Principles and other operational efficiency techniques as appropriate.
Working with internal partner teams, establish appropriate Ground Operations personnel management policies and procedures to ensure robust support to Stratolaunch's flight operations. Ensure high-quality leadership, management, coaching, performance reviews, hiring and development of ground operations personnel.
Assist in the strategic maturation of Stratolaunch's aircraft maintenance activities by providing guidance to aircraft Engineering & Program Management. Assist with spares management & system development in support of company goals.
Own the ongoing airworthiness of Stratolaunch's flying fleet. Ensure regulatory requirements for experimental aircraft airworthiness are met.
Create, manage, and own the Ground Operations budget for ongoing operations and capital expenditures. Identify opportunities to reduce cost and/or increase operational effectiveness. Manage and assess Ground Operations resource planning in partnership with Program Managers to ensure program success.
Other duties as assigned or otherwise beneficial to effectively fulfilling the mission and vision of the company.
Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity, and fulfillment of commitments.
QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
REQUIRED 15+ years of experience with leadership and management of aircraft maintenance and flight line operations.
5+ years experience working at a Director or equivalent level; responsible for financial planning, workforce management and multi-year outlooks of a 50 person maintenance organization.
Strong understanding of aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and regulatory requirements for both type-certified and experimental aircraft.
Experience working with a variety of internal partners including Quality, Environmental Health & Safety, Facilities, Engineering, Manufacturing Operations, Procurement, Property Control, Finance and Human Resources.
Proven track record of developing team members into effective leaders.
Strong team building, collaboration, and leadership skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with employees, fellow company leaders, and customers.
Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple concurrent activities among many groups and provide clear plan of dependencies and deadlines.
Demonstrated ability to work under tight deadlines, managing multiple priorities in a dynamic and changing environment.
Self-motivated with a strong track record of forecasting potential challenge areas and taking initiative to address those areas promptly.
Practices creative problem solving skills. Demonstrated ability to think "out of the box" and apply non-traditional solutions to challenging issues.
Proficient knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.
Ability and willingness to work flexible and off-shift hours (including 1st, 2nd shift, and weekends) when business needs dictate.
Preferred Current FAA Airframe and Power Plant License.
Experience working with 747 or other large, transport-category aircraft.
5+ years working in an experimental aircraft environment.
Deep knowledge and a network of suppliers and service providers able to support 747 aircraft.
Experience working with the development of efficient maintenance programs for new and/or experimental aircraft.
Have a working knowledge of Jira.
EDUCATION Bachelor's degree in related discipline from an accredited institution and 15+ years relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable This position is located in Mojave, CA.
$170,000-$290,000
Eligible for up to 20% annual bonus.
Benefits and our location: Relocation eligible to local area – Mojave, CA.
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 the IRS annual limit.
Tuition reimbursement.
Applicants must be a US Person to be considered for this role- To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in 22 C.F.R. 120.67, which includes (a) U.S. citizens; (b) U.S. nationals; (c) U.S. lawful permanent residents; (d) persons granted refugee status; and (e) persons granted asylum. 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.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf Job Category: Ground Operations & Maintenance
Req ID: 96
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