Carrier Aircraft Chief Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is at the forefront of aerospace technology, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of hypersonic flight. We are seeking a Chief Engineer to lead our launch platform aircraft fleet, which includes the iconic Spirit of Mojave and Roc, the world's largest aircraft by wingspan. This pivotal role involves guiding multifaceted engineering teams to ensure the successful modification, maintenance, and operation of our experimental aircraft, enabling groundbreaking hypersonic testing.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Assume responsibility for the technical data packages related to Stratolaunch's launch platforms, overseeing technical baselines and managing change control processes.
• Partner with the Launch Platform Program Manager to ensure that all aircraft are prepared for test operations and to implement necessary modification programs.
• Apply Systems Engineering methodologies to effectively manage project scope, identify and mitigate risks, and guarantee high-quality execution within the Launch Platform service center.
• Collaborate with both internal hypersonic vehicle programs and external partners to support the integration and certification of payloads with Stratolaunch aircraft.
• Work closely with Maintenance and Operations teams to secure certifications for our experimental aircraft.
• Aid in the planning and execution of tests, both on the ground and in the air.
• Play a key role in developing business proposals and strategic planning for new initiatives related to launch platforms.
• Lead technical discussions and reviews, including assessments during Engineering Review Board phase-gate processes.
• Create engineering staffing strategies and identify skill gaps within the team to ensure optimal performance.
• Supervise engineering personnel dedicated to the Launch Platforms service center, ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Promote collaboration across various departments to meet business objectives and enhance program execution.

Requirements

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Proven track record as a front-line manager leading technical teams in a dynamic environment.
• Experience in the maintenance, modification, and testing of experimental aircraft is essential.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities in engineering, with a focus on balancing cost, schedule, and technical performance.
• Experience in recruiting and onboarding engineering professionals.
• Familiarity with defense contracts and classified projects is highly desirable.
• Ability to interact effectively with customers and external partners.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities to address complex technical issues.
• Comprehensive understanding of Systems Engineering principles and practices.
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced setting to achieve business goals.
• Knowledge of relevant Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), including Parts 21 and 25.
• U.S. Citizenship is required, along with the capability to obtain a Department of Defense security clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience with hypersonic vehicle development and testing.
• Previous involvement in aerospace program management.
• Familiarity with advanced materials and manufacturing processes used in aircraft design.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and Outlook, for documentation and communication purposes.

Practical notes

• This role is primarily based in Mojave, CA, with a strong preference for candidates to work on-site. Hybrid work arrangements may be available for exceptionally qualified candidates, but will require a minimum of 75-80% on-site presence.
• Occasional travel may be required, estimated to be less than 10% of the time.

Education & experience

• For Staff-level positions ($157,000-$206,000): A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution, combined with 10-20 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent mix of education and experience.
• For Principal-level positions ($181,000-$237,300): A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution, along with over 20 years of engineering experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Stratolaunch is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination or harassment in any form throughout the hiring process. U.S. Citizenship may be necessary for certain roles due to government clearance requirements.

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.