Vehicle & Systems Fabrication Manager

About the role

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. We are seeking a Vehicle & Systems Fabrication Manager to lead our mechanical assembly, structural integration, metal fabrication, machining, and general production operations across both prototype and structured production environments. Reporting to the Sr. Production Manager, you will oversee day-to-day activities for fabrication, machining, and assembly teams, drive improvements in quality and efficiency, and ensure disciplined execution of production plans. You will collaborate closely with Production Control, Programs, and other supporting functions to develop and maintain production schedules, and work cross-functionally to ensure seamless program delivery and operational excellence. The ideal candidate brings technical expertise in aerospace manufacturing and integration, a proven record of leadership within high-reliability or advanced manufacturing environments, and the ability to mentor and develop teams to achieve outstanding results in both prototype and production settings. Success in this role depends on your ability to anticipate issues, communicate effectively, and deliver results under pressure. Key Responsibilities Lead mechanical assembly, integration, composite fabrication, metal fabrication, machining, and general production operations for both prototype and structured production builds. Supervise, mentor, and develop production team members, fostering a culture of accountability, safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Collaborate with Production Control, Program teams, and other departments to execute detailed production schedules, ensuring alignment with overall program objectives. Support process improvements by leveraging digital tools, MES, and data analytics to enhance safety, repeatability, and throughput in both prototype and structured production environments. Manage labor and material cost by monitoring timekeeping, optimizing resource allocation, and controlling material usage to meet or exceed cost targets. Ensure compliance with aerospace standards and company quality requirements across all assigned production activities. Assist with capacity planning and workforce development to support current and future program needs. Monitor and report production metrics (schedule, cost, quality, safety) to drive accountability and continuous improvement. Identify and mitigate risks to production objectives, proactively addressing issues that could impact delivery, cost, or quality. Promote and enforce safety leadership across the shop floor, ensuring compliance with PPE usage, equipment standards, and safe operating practices. Ensure all production areas and processes are maintained and FOD free. Maintain build documentation, records, and logs to ensure full traceability and compliance with quality standards. Support on-vehicle integration and final assembly tasks, ensuring systems and structures are properly installed, secured, and tested on aircraft platforms. Champion a collaborative, team-oriented environment that supports program goals and employee growth. Represent fabrication and supporting manufacturing functions in program reviews and management meetings as required by management. Qualifications 5+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing environments, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role. Strong technical knowledge of mechanical assembly, structural integration, metal fabrication, machining, and general production processes. Demonstrated success in leading, mentoring, and developing production teams. Proven track record of driving process improvements and delivering results in a fast-paced, high-reliability environment. Excellent communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Experience with MES systems, production documentation, and reporting tools. Working knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methodologies. Preferred: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Manufacturing, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field. Experience with prototype-to-production transitions in aerospace or advanced manufacturing. Background in R&D, rapid prototyping, or startup environments. Lean/continuous improvement certifications (Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.). Experience implementing production tooling, workstations, and infrastructure for efficient, repeatable builds. Work Environment This role operates within a hands-on fabrication and assembly shop supporting both prototype development and structured production builds. Team members work at assembly benches, machining centers, and integration stations with standard aerospace tooling, overhead lighting, and controlled environments. Job function could require performance in other areas (e.g., aircraft hangar). The position requires: Regular standing, manual dexterity, and occasional lifting of moderate components. Consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, gloves, and ESD controls. On-aircraft work during installation and integration phases, requiring mobility in and around vehicle structures. Collaboration in a team-focused environment where adherence to safety protocols, production schedules, and organized workflows is essential. 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