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 GSE Mechanic to maintain all operational ground support equipment supporting our carrier aircraft and hypersonic vehicles. This hands-on role performs scheduled and unscheduled maintenance and provides dependable equipment support during flight and ground-test operations. The mechanic coordinates equipment readiness and placement with Aircraft Maintenance, Flight Operations, Flight Test, Engineering, and program teams. Occasional mission travel is required.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and test powered and non-powered GSE; perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
- Maintain engines, electrical and charging systems, generators, hydraulics, pneumatics, brakes, drivetrains, steering, and cooling systems.
- Service ground power units, compressors, hydraulic carts, tow tractors, trailers, and other GSE using technical manuals and approved procedures.
- Stage, transport, connect, operate, monitor, disconnect, recover, and store GSE during flight and ground-test operations; verify compatibility and operating limits.
- Coordinate on-site equipment placement with Aircraft Maintenance, Flight Operations, Flight Test, Engineering, and program teams; report readiness and limitations.
- Perform pre-use, periodic, and post-use inspections; identify leaks, wear, damage, and hazards. Tag and remove unserviceable equipment from use.
- Use diagnostic tools, wiring diagrams, and schematics to isolate faults; verify repairs and document serviceability before release under company procedures.
- Operate company vehicles; tow and secure equipment using rated connections and spotters. Observe flight-line routes, clearances, speed limits, and exclusion areas.
- Maintain inspection and maintenance records, work orders, usage, parts, and discrepancy status; track service intervals and repeat defects.
- Apply flight-line safety, foreign object debris (FOD) control, tool control, lockout/tagout, and hazardous-material procedures; isolate stored energy and stop unsafe work.
- Keep work areas organized; control spills, fluids, batteries, and waste. Support mission deployments, shift turnovers, and other assigned duties with integrity.
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
- 3+ years maintaining aviation GSE, gasoline or diesel fleet vehicles, industrial equipment, or comparable military equipment.
- Demonstrated troubleshooting and repair skills with gasoline and diesel engines, fuel and cooling systems, brakes, drivetrains, and steering.
- Ability to diagnose electrical systems and wiring, batteries, starting and charging systems, and generators using multimeters, load testers, and diagnostic equipment.
- Working knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic pumps, compressors, valves, cylinders, hoses, pressure testing, contamination control, and safe depressurization.
- Ability to interpret technical manuals, wiring diagrams, schematics, and maintenance schedules; correctly use hand tools, torque tools, and calibrated test equipment.
- Experience performing inspections, preventive maintenance, and functional tests; accurate maintenance documentation and basic computer and work-order system skills.
- Knowledge of flight-line safety, FOD control, tool accountability, lockout/tagout, hazardous materials, safety data sheets, spill response, and safe lifting or jacking practices.
- Safe towing, load securement, and company vehicle operation skills; valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and ability to obtain required equipment authorizations.
- Ability to follow checklists, verify GSE output and interface requirements, recognize hazards, and communicate clearly by radio and during shift turnovers.
- Ability to work independently and across teams, prioritize changing needs, and report limitations; availability for flexible shifts, weekends, and occasional mission travel.
PREFERRED
- Aviation flight-line or flight-test GSE experience, including ground power, servicing equipment, and aircraft towing support.
- Welding and fabrication ability; safe use of welding and cutting equipment to build or repair components to approved requirements.
- Diesel, automotive, electrical, or industrial maintenance certifications; forklift, aerial lift, or computerized maintenance system experience.
EDUCATION
- High school diploma or equivalent required; related vocational, apprenticeship, or military technical training preferred.
Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
- This position is located in Mojave, CA. Shop, hangar, and flight-line work includes desert heat and cold, wind, dust, noise, exhaust, fuels, oils, and moving equipment.
- Must stand and walk for extended periods; bend, kneel, crouch, climb, reach, and work in restricted spaces; use tools and move items up to 50 pounds with lifting aids or team assistance as appropriate, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Must use required PPE, communicate around operating equipment, and recognize gauges, indicators, markings, and hazards, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- 4/10 schedule
- 4-6 years experience: $31.00-$39.86
- 6+ years experience: $34.60-$45.85
Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s):
- 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
This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
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