Skyship Services Inc. is seeking an experienced Aerostat Operator 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:

Primary Duties:

Serve as a senior mechanical maintenance technician for all assigned aerostat shift and site requirements.
Performs a wide range of technical tasks to include using standard mechanical 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, power and control subsystems, tether subsystem, meteorological equipment, ground station subsystems, payload and communications subsystems, and site facility 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.
Execute test steps and collect results.
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 mechanical subsystems.
Trains and certifies other personnel in selected aerostat mechanical subsystem procedures.
Supports all security, logistics, and site specific requirements as directed when not in conflict with primary electrical maintenance responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:

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 verbal 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.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to walk and stand on level and/or inclined surfaces for certain periods throughout the day.
Must be able to climb stairs, ramps, ladders, and work stands, working at heights with fall protection devices.
Must be able to crouch, crawl, grasp or handle objects, use finger dexterity, bend elbow/knee and reach above/below shoulders.
May be required to lift up to 25 pounds and carry for short distances.
Must be able to distinguish color and judge three-dimensional depth.

Preferred Qualifications:

Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $28.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Vision insurance

Schedule: 12 hour shift

To apply: Send your resume and letter of interest to - reference this CFEC job posting, when applying.