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Virgin Galactic · 18 hours ago

Specialist, Materials Test Technician

Irvine, CA

Full-time

Onsite

Mid Level

$62K/yr - $88K/yr

4+ years exp

Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. They are seeking a Specialist Materials Test Technician to focus on testing composite components and assemblies for their next generation of spaceships, ensuring that materials meet exacting standards before use. The role involves executing various materials tests, collecting and reporting data, interpreting engineering drawings, and supporting process improvements.

AerospaceCommercialSpace Travel

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Execute tensile, torsion, compression, flexure and shear materials testing using equipment including (but not limited to) universal test equipment

Collect test data and report results to engineers, managers and executives

Interpret engineering drawings and follow Manufacturing Work Instructions (MWIs) to ensure fabrication accuracy and quality

Identify and implement process improvements for efficiency and quality

Adhere to set directions and guidelines from team leaders to support collaboration across teams to complete project

Monitor and control maintenance and calibration of test assets (custom, materials, environmental chambers, thermal vacuum chambers, vibration tables, and more)

Monitor and control maintenance and calibration of test assets (universal test machines, thermal/humidity chambers)

Occasional trim, machine and drill composite parts and test coupons to precise specifications

Occasional adhesive bonding of structural joints using paste adhesives and mechanical fasteners

Provide mentorship and training to junior technicians

Execute other duties as required by Virgin Galactic senior leadership to support company and program objectives

Qualification

Composite materials testingStructural bondingLay-up proceduresBlueprint interpretationComposite machining equipmentProcess improvementAgile work environmentSafety practicesTechnical report writingMentorship

Required

High School Diploma or equivalent

Minimum of four (4) years of experience in composite materials test

Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, and/or models on paper or digital

Extensive knowledge of and experience in lay-up procedures, vacuum bagging, and oven/autoclave curing

Experience with structural bonding using both adhesives and mechanical fasteners

Experience with strain gauge bonding on composite test coupons

Proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, and composite machining equipment, including saws, surface grinders, drills, pencil grinders, lathes, mills and other mechanical tools

Shop floor manufacturing and inspection technologies knowledge

Demonstrated ability to use computer applications to follow work instructions

A hands-on mentality and an emphasis on continuous improvement

Experience in an Agile work environment

Execute other duties as required by Virgin Galactic senior leadership to support company and program objectives