Scale Aircraft Build Lead

Long beach, CA
Full Time
R&D Operations
Manager/Supervisor

What is JetZero?

Today’s aircraft contribute around 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, equivalent to the emissions of 200 million cars. This is only going to increase: Air travel is forecasted to double by 2050, while meaningful efficiency gains using current airplanes have hit a wall.   

JetZero is developing a blended wing aircraft. It uses 50% less fuel and can accommodate zero-emission hydrogen propulsion. JetZero is the inevitable solution to sustainable air travel.   

The JetZero team

We are experienced aerospace professionals and engineers, excited about the future. That future will only be possible if we share our vision and what it means to people’s lives: carbon-free flight that's better for both passengers and carriers.  

This is why we’re hiring ​a Scale Aircraft Build Lead. You will be responsible for our sub scale vehicle flight testing programs and related activities. 

JetZero is a place for people who are ambitious, talented, and humble. This role is based in Long Beach, CA reporting to the Head of R&D Operations. 

What You'll Do

  • Lead a team to perform aircraft assembly and maintenance supporting all sub scale flight test operations. 
  • Plan, implement, and maintain effective procedures, policies and systems for the aircraft assembly and flight test preparation. Ensure accurate, current, and complete documentation is utilized and maintained to include records, and maintenance manuals.  
  • Oversee all assembly, repair and overhaul projects and the conduct of all such services necessary to achieve compliance with established standards and FAA regulations. 
  • Perform on-site inspection, maintenance, repair, modification, and test of all sub scale aircraft and component equipment, including sophisticated electronic navigational and control devices, mechanical and hydraulic systems. 
  • Establish priorities and coordinate with appropriate flight test personnel and supporting departments or contractors to ensure all aircraft and systems are airworthy and the surrounding environment is properly maintained. This may include oversight of the hangar facility including preparation of associated ground support equipment. 
  • Maintain an adequate supply of tools, serviceable parts, components, and consumables necessary for servicing and maintaining flight test aircraft and ground support equipment. 
  • Order parts, components, tools, consumables, and supplies consistent with areas of responsibility. Manage spares inventory for aircraft, including ordering, completion of required documentation and performing receiving inspections. 
  • Support overall JetZero company goals and objectives. 
  • Other tasking as required.

Helpful Traits

You have a Startup Mindset – We are a small team with big ambitions. This means every single one of us has numerous responsibilities. There’s a lot of work to do starting on Day 1, so you’ll want to be someone that enjoys rolling up your sleeves. 

You're comfortable with ambiguity – You embrace the challenge of building from scratch and navigating uncharted territory. You have a flexible mindset, enabling you to adapt and find innovative solutions.  

You're a strong collaborator – You understand the value of teamwork and collaboration in achieving shared objectives. You appreciate diverse perspectives and contribute constructively to team dynamics. 

You're eager to learn – You have a strong learning mindset, always seeking opportunities to acquire new knowledge. You ask insightful questions, actively engage in discussions, and demonstrate a genuine desire to understand.  

What You'll Bring

  • Minimum 5 years prior experience with the assembly of composite experimental aircraft, propulsion systems and their related subsystems utilizing analytical and non-destructive techniques along with a thorough and in-depth working knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations, their interpretation and application. 
  • Working knowledge of best practice and standards relating to aircraft maintenance and operation. 
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship, onsite at our Long Beach location. 
  • An energetic mindset ready to oversee and develop recurring flight testing activities within tight timelines.
Qualifications We Prefer 
  • Can work in a fast-moving, agile environment and can prioritize and resolve issues in support of the program and its goals. 
  • Ability to communicate effectively with all persons and constituencies associated with the safe operation of aircraft 
  • Ability and willingness to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays. Off-site work and travel will be required, ability to travel without restriction. 
  • Works effectively with multi-disciplinary teams. 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Aircraft & Powerplant Certificate a plus 
  • Experience with ‘home building’ aircraft  
  • Working knowledge of AN/NAS fastening systems, composite bonding and MIL spec electrical connectors and systems 

The Benefits

  • Competitive salaries
  • Unlimited PTO
  • 10 paid holidays
  • 401(k)
  • Medical, Dental, Life health insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Equity tax advisory services
  • Supportive work culture

JetZero does not sponsor visas for US positions unless specified. Only applicants with current work authorization will be considered.

Salary Range: $105,000 - $140,000

At JetZero, we value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally for employment & do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws, ordinance, or regulation.

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