TARS - Machinery Maintenance Mechanic

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If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems.  In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Machinery Maintenance Mechanic with specific experience in supporting Telemetry and Control operations to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program leverages aerostat systems to provide persistent surveillance and detection capabilities, to the U.S. Government customer across eight (8) different operational sites along the US Southern border in multiple locations including Puerto Rico, Florida, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. 

The successful candidate will have experience managing aerostat flight operations on platforms similar in size to the TARS aerostats. You will be part of a comprehensive flight crew activity supporting aerostat pre-launch, launch, ascent, transition, station keeping, and recovery, with specific responsibilities in telemetry and control operations.  Secondary responsibilities will include performing recurring mechanical maintenance on aerostat and radar systems, as well as support functions related to site operations (such as security, landscaping, and logistical functions. A summary of responsibilities are as follows:  

• • Serve as a senior machinery maintenance mechanic for all assigned aerostat shift and site requirements. 
  • Performs a wide range of technical tasks to include using standard mechanics hand tools, mechanical disassembly/assembly, wiring, soldering, fiber optic splicing, operating standard and unique test equipment, repairing aerostat fabric and handling high-pressure gases such as Helium and Nitrogen. 
  • Flight Crew Member (pre/post flight, launch/recovery, helium toppings, snubbing, inflations/ deflations, tether inspections, proficiency in all emergency procedures for both moored and airborne flight aerostat operations) 
  • Makes significant event and data entries in the mission flight log. 
  • Performs all aerostat electronic subsystem preflight and post-flight checks and inspections as required. 
  • Maintain, troubleshoot and repair: 
  • Aerostat structures, hydraulic systems, fiber optic components, avionics and electrical components. 
  • Ground systems such as generators, communication and weather systems 
  • Maintains cognizance of system performance. 
  • Performs corrective and preventive maintenance on the aerostat telemetry and control subsystems, power and control subsystems, tether subsystem, meteorological equipment, ground station subsystems, payload and communications subsystems, and site facility equipment as appropriate. 
  • Applies advanced technical knowledge to solve unusually complex problems (i.e., those that typically cannot be solved solely by reference to manufacturers’ manuals or similar documents) in working on mechanical equipment. 
  • Operate general purpose and special purpose vehicles to include man lift operations to heights of 150 feet 
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned 

  Secondary Duties include: 

  • Maintain and understand site documentation such as parts request forms, equipment condition tags, timecards, and flight data and maintenance logs 
  • Calibrate all site and test equipment as required 
  • Coordinates resupply and repair logistics activities for the aerostat subsystems. 
  • Trains and certifies other personnel in selected aerostat subsystem procedures. 
  • Supports all security, logistics, and site-specific requirements as directed when not in conflict with primary electrical maintenance responsibilities. 

• • GED or High School Diploma.  
  • 7 Years’ experience in mechanical maintenance.  Associate and Bachelor of Science degree in any technical discipline can be substituted for years’ experience 
  • Ability to obtain flight operator certification 
  • Valid U.S. Driver’s license required. 
  • Strong written and communication skills. 
  • Must be willing to work in a 24/7 shift scenario and be assigned to various shifts as required to meet mission requirements. 
  • Proof of U.S. residency required. 
  • Work requires the ability to perform the following physical activies: walking, standing, stooping, bending, twisting, crawling, reaching, lifting, sitting, and squatting. Work may require walking, standing, sitting, and working in confined spaces or at high elevations for extended periods of time.
  • Weight lifting requirement of 60-80lbs and ability to climb.

• Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat.
• Must pass the Aerostat basic training course for continued employment.

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.