At Virgin Orbit, we are launching the small satellite revolution, enabling missions that were previously unimaginable. We are delivering Virgin’s legendary customer experience by combining advanced technology with a diligent, hard-working team. We have built a workplace and a workforce of the future, knowing that our decisions and investments of today are launching the industries of tomorrow. We have engaged a diverse and inclusive community of doers and dreamers alike, empowering all those working today to build satellites and constellations that will change the world.

At Virgin Orbit, we are opening space for good. Search all of our job openings on our career portal.

Position Summary 

Virgin Orbit (VO) is seeking a new member for our team to serve as a Sr. CNC Tube Bender. If you join us in this position, you will assist in buildup and test of propulsion engines for the LauncherOne small satellite launch program. This role is for a hands-on person with great attention to detail and excellent people skills. This is a full-time position at our rocket factory in beautiful Long Beach, California.

• Perform tasks and work per written procedures and work instructions.
• Set up and operate a CNC tube bender, both hydraulic and electric. 
• Ability to finish tubing, which includes flaring, de-burring, trimming, cleaning and labeling
• Ability to proof tubing assemblies pneumatically and hydrostatically.
• Utilize precision tube bend inspection methods similar to a Romer arm (VMM).
• Fabricate, modify and or repair hydraulic and pneumatic tubes.   
• Maintain high standards of safety, quality and output consistent with the requirements of being a Virgin Orbit team member.
• Work with and provide input to the development and manufacturing engineers to improve part manufacturability.
• Use of hand tools for the buildup of hydraulic and pneumatic tubes.
• Use of appropriate PPE when working around parts on the shop floor.
• Recommend and implement continuous improvement activities in production methods, equipment performance and team effectiveness.
• Ability to train and lead team members, be willing to lead by example and jump in to help when required.
• Ability to maintain certifications and licenses as required
• Help Virgin Orbit do our part to make the world a better place
• Constantly learn new things—and share them with your team members
• Performs other duties as assigned

If you want to join us, you’d better have all of these…

• High school diploma or GED required
• 5 years prior CNC tube bending experience in propulsion production is required
• Capable of bending ¼”-2.50” OD Stainless steel and Inconel tubing, wall thicknesses ranging from 0.028”- 0.130”
• Certifications or similar within aerospace, aviation or automotive
• Experience with fitting assembly; manufacturing and assembly of flared fittings
• Experience with liquid rocket fabrication and assembly
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing philosophies and tools a plus
• Strong mathematical, basic computer, problem solving and decision making skills, and strong written and verbal communication skills
• Determine and obtain correct type and size fasteners
• Install fasteners in correct sequence per drawing, using correct tools
• Check work after completion of each operation in job and/or completed job to ensure it is complete per drawing
• Knowledge and understanding of lean manufacturing
• Ability and willingness to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing work environment
• Driven, highly motivated, and committed to improvement
• Ability to add something unique and positive to our team
• Generally high level of all-around awesomeness
• Must be able to work all shifts and available for overtime as well as weekends when needed
• Must be able to stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum
• Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and being able to maneuver in tight spaces
• Physically able to handle items weighing up to 25lbs (unassisted)

… and you should probably have a bunch of these, too.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Ability to use metrology equipment to measure parts such torque wrenches and scales
• Creative problem solver, able to work in multi-disciplinary teams
• Self-directed with excellent organizational skills and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in both R&D and production rate environments
• Constantly learn new things—and share them with your team members
• Passion for space exploration and a firm belief in the utility of affordable access to space
• Ability to thrive as a ‘one person team

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Personal Requirements

Our idea of a happy life: build rockets, work with brilliant people, serve purposeful customers, and open access to space. Sir Richard Branson’s belief is “If you get the perfect mix of people working for your company, you have a far greater chance of success.” From the very start, we have placed top priority on growing and fostering a team of creative, diverse, and talented women and men. 

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Virgin Orbit is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Orbit is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.