Overview:

Skyship Services, Inc. (SSI) is seeking an experienced System Maintenance Manager to lead mechanical and technical maintenance operations for two co-located aerostat systems supporting the TARS and ARGOS Programs. The role combines hands-on flight crew and maintenance responsibilities with direct supervisory ownership of maintenance personnel, schedules, and compliance across both systems at the site. The System Maintenance Manager is the senior technical authority on-site for aerostat mechanical readiness and reports program status directly to site leadership and the government customer.

Primary Duties:

Serve as the senior maintenance authority for both aerostat systems at the site, prioritizing maintenance workload, parts, and personnel across the two programs. Supervise, schedule, and mentor mechanical maintenance technicians and flight crew members across both systems; conduct performance reviews and identify training needs. Know how to perform hands-on technical work: mechanical disassembly/assembly, wiring, soldering, fiber optic splicing, aerostat fabric repair, and handling of high-pressure gases (Helium, Nitrogen). Serve as a qualified Flight Crew Member for both systems (pre/post flight, launch/recovery, helium toppings, snubbing, inflations/deflations, tether inspections), maintaining proficiency in emergency procedures for moored and airborne operations. Own the maintenance and troubleshooting program for aerostat structures, hydraulic systems, fiber optic components, avionics, electrical components, and ground systems (generators, communications, weather systems) across both systems. Establish and oversee the preventive/corrective maintenance schedule for both aerostats, tether subsystems, meteorological equipment, ground stations, payload/communications subsystems, and site facilities. Serve as the escalation point for complex technical problems not resolvable through manufacturer documentation alone. Interface directly with government program stakeholders on maintenance status, readiness, and technical issues for both systems. Operate general purpose and special purpose vehicles, including man-lift operations to heights of 150 feet, when performing hands-on work.

Secondary Duties:

Own and audit site documentation across both systems: parts requests, equipment condition tags, timecards, flight/maintenance logs. Oversee calibration schedules for all site and test equipment. Manage resupply and repair logistics for mechanical subsystems across both systems, including budget/resource tradeoffs when demand competes between the two. Design and lead certification/training programs for site personnel on aerostat mechanical subsystem procedures. Coordinate with security, logistics, and site operations leads to ensure site-wide readiness, resolving conflicts between the two systems' priorities.

Required Qualifications:

GED or High School Diploma; Associate or Bachelor of Science degree in a technical discipline preferred and may substitute for experience. 10+ years of experience in mechanical maintenance, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role Ability to obtain flight operator certification on both systems. Valid U.S. Driver's license required. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting maintenance/readiness status to government or customer stakeholders. Demonstrated experience managing or leading a maintenance team (scheduling, training, performance management). Proof of U.S. residency required. Willingness to flex across shift coverage as needed to support 24/7 site operations (softened from a fixed shift-rotation requirement — confirm if you want this manager on the rotation) .

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to walk and stand on level and/or inclined surfaces for extended periods. Must be able to climb stairs, ramps, ladders, and work stands, and work at heights with fall protection devices. Must be able to crouch, crawl, grasp/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 on multiple aerostat systems or sizes. Prior experience managing maintenance operations across multiple programs or systems concurrently.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$40.00 - $41.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Vision insurance Application Question(s): Do you have the ability to obtain or already possess a Flight Operator Certification?

Experience:

Maintenance Mechanic:

4 years (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Summerland Key, FL 33042 (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Summerland Key, FL 33042: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person