Aircraft Maintenance Controller (Flight Test & Operations)

About the role

Stratolaunch is at the forefront of hypersonic technology, focusing on realistic operational testing at speeds exceeding Mach

5. Our Talon testbeds provide reusable and economical solutions for regular access to hypersonic environments, generating essential flight data for system validation and swift technology deployment. This role is pivotal in ensuring our aircraft are maintained in optimal condition for flight testing and special operations.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee and monitor the condition of aircraft within the Maintenance and Operations department.
• Provide real-time updates regarding aircraft status to program managers and leadership.
• Coordinate urgent maintenance tasks to support fast-paced test schedules, including inspections and configuration modifications.
• Ensure all maintenance activities are documented and comply with engineering and regulatory standards.
• Assist in the preparation for ground, taxi, and flight tests by ensuring aircraft readiness in collaboration with crew chiefs and engineering teams.
• Manage both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance in alignment with changing test schedules.
• Create and maintain short- and mid-term maintenance forecasts to meet program deadlines.
• Allocate resources effectively across multiple test aircraft to reduce downtime and enhance availability.
• Plan and oversee parts ordering, delivery, and vendor coordination.
• Act as the primary communication link among engineers, pilots, maintenance staff, and operations teams.
• Provide leadership with timely updates on aircraft readiness, issues, and recovery plans.
• Collaborate with engineering to address discrepancies, modifications, or specific testing needs.
• Work closely with supply chain teams to ensure availability of parts for critical repairs.
• Adhere to FAA experimental regulations, company policies, and engineering standards.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance actions and configuration changes in the tracking system.
• Support audits, conformity checks, and engineering review boards as needed.
• Uphold strict safety and tool control practices during flight operations.
• Participate in investigations of incidents or accidents and contribute to root cause analyses.
• Foster continuous improvement in maintenance processes tailored to the specific needs of test programs.
• Integrate new maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) software for newly delivered aircraft.

Requirements

• FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification is preferred.
• At least 5 years of experience in aircraft maintenance, with a focus on flight test or experimental programs.
• Strong understanding of standard maintenance scheduling practices in the aviation industry.
• Ability to interpret engineering schematics, test requirements, and experimental instructions.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities in high-pressure situations.
• Familiarity with maintenance tracking systems.
• Experience in resource allocation and managing competing priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Project, Visio, and other Microsoft 365 applications.
• Strong team player with outstanding interpersonal skills.
• Self-driven with a focus on accuracy and organization.

Nice to have

• A&P license (preferred)
• Inspection Authorization (IA) is a plus but not mandatory.
• Experience on the flight line or in flight testing is advantageous.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in maintenance tracking systems.
• Strong organizational skills for managing multiple tasks and priorities.

Practical notes

• This position is based in Mojave, CA.
• Occasional overtime during nights and weekends may be required.
• Base salary ranges from $58.00 to $76.00 per hour, determined on an individual basis considering various factors, including location, education, and experience.

Stratolaunch offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a 9/80 work schedule, healthcare coverage (medical, dental, vision, and prescription drugs), paid maternity and parental leave, a 401(k) plan with a company match, and tuition reimbursement.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. U.S. citizenship may be necessary for certain positions requiring government clearance.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.