CBA - MQ-9 Aircraft Mechanic UX-24 NTWL - Naval Test Wing Atlantic, MD

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: CBA - MQ-9 Aircraft Mechanic UX-24

Company: V2X

Location: Patuxent River, MD (On-site)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Aircraft Maintenance & Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-22

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the hands-on maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of MQ-9 Reaper aircraft systems and components, ensuring operational readiness and safety.

• It involves detailed diagnostics of mechanical, structural, and systems-level issues, requiring a strong understanding of aviation technical documentation and procedures.

• The position demands adherence to stringent military aviation maintenance standards, including NAMP and COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2.

• This role is integral to the Naval Test Wing Atlantic (NTWL) program, contributing to critical flight testing and evaluation operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input title mentions "UX-24", this is likely an internal project code or designation not widely understood. The core role is an MQ-9 Aircraft Mechanic. The location is specified as Patuxent River, MD, which is crucial for setting expectations. The "CBA" likely refers to a Collective Bargaining Agreement, indicating potential union involvement and associated benefits/structures.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive troubleshooting of malfunctions across aircraft structures, landing gear, flight surfaces, controls, anti-icing systems, pneudraulics, engines, auxiliary power units, and ventilation/heating systems.

• Execute maintenance, repairs, and modifications on aircraft structures and structural components with moderate complexity, ensuring compliance with technical orders and specifications.

• Replace or repair worn or damaged components, including carburetors, alternators, magnetos, fuel pumps, oil pumps, and engine-mounted gearboxes.

• Remove, disassemble, inspect, repair, and reinstall aircraft engines, identifying and rectifying wear, cracks, or other defects.

• Service aircraft, including flushing crankcases, cleaning screens and filters, greasing moving parts, and checking brakes as part of pre-flight, through-flight, and post-flight inspections.

• Adjust, repair, or replace electrical wiring systems and aircraft accessories.

• Apply technical knowledge of airframe and power plant systems to diagnose and resolve equipment malfunctions.

• Interpret technical documentation, blueprints, and manufacturers' manuals to solve complex technical problems.

• Supervise aircraft jacking and towing operations, ensuring satisfactory completion of tasks.

• Perform line station maintenance and repairs on engines and airframe components to maintain safe operating conditions, short of complete overhaul.

• Potentially specialize in the repair, modification, and overhaul of structural, precision, and functional spare parts and assemblies, or engine repair.

• Make entries in aircraft logs and records as required.

• Prioritize workload effectively to meet schedules on assigned projects.

• Comply with all current sections of COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2 series applicable to aircraft maintenance and Aviation Life Support Systems (ALSS).

• Utilize working knowledge of technical publications, the Naval Aviation Maintenance Program (NAMP), and NALCOMIS aircraft maintenance applications.

• Perform other related duties as assigned to support program objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description provided a very detailed list of duties. These have been consolidated and rephrased for clarity while retaining all critical operational tasks. The emphasis on specific systems and documentation like NAMP and COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2 is crucial for operations candidates.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

• Completion of specialized courses in aircraft structural repair is required. Experience:

• Two (2) to Four (4) years of actual and recent experience in the repair, modification, maintenance, and overhaul of the MQ-9 Reaper or comparable fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft.

• Four (4) years of experience is preferred. Required Skills:

• Thorough knowledge of aircraft mechanical component troubleshooting, repair procedures, and replacement of parts.

• Broad knowledge of aircraft sheet metal/structural modifications and repair techniques.

• Basic understanding of electrical theory relevant to aircraft systems.

• Proficiency with aircraft-specific tools, including test equipment, torque wrenches, dial indicators, micrometers, sheet metal brakes, and sheers.

• Working knowledge of technical publications and aviation maintenance directives.

• Ability to read and interpret technical data, blueprints, and manufacturers' manuals.

• Skill in prioritizing workload to maintain project schedules.

• Working knowledge of corrosion control techniques.

• Familiarity with base, federal, and company procedures for handling and disposal of hazardous waste materials.

• Working knowledge of aircraft sub-systems, including maintenance parameters, system operation, limitations, and technical orders.

• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently. Preferred Skills:

• Four (4) years of direct MQ-9 Reaper maintenance experience.

• Experience with NAMP and NALCOMIS aircraft maintenance applications.

• Ability to obtain a Government flight line driver's license.

• Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement clearly states "2 to 4 years" with "4 years preferred," indicating a range that accommodates both early-career and mid-level professionals within this specialized field. The emphasis on specific aircraft (MQ-9) and regulatory bodies (NAMP, COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2) is key for attracting qualified candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented experience in diagnosing and resolving complex aircraft system malfunctions, showcasing a systematic troubleshooting approach.

• Evidence of successful repairs and modifications to aircraft structures and mechanical components, highlighting attention to detail and quality of work.

• Examples of interpreting and applying technical documentation (e.g., technical orders, blueprints) to complete maintenance tasks accurately.

• Case studies detailing the maintenance lifecycle of specific components or systems, illustrating process flow from diagnosis to resolution.

• Demonstrations of adherence to safety protocols and hazardous material handling procedures within an aircraft maintenance context. Process Documentation:

• Workflow designs for routine and complex aircraft maintenance tasks, including inspection checklists and repair sequences.

• Implementation records of repair actions, detailing parts used, procedures followed, and time taken, with a focus on efficiency and accuracy.

• Performance analysis of completed maintenance actions, potentially including metrics on downtime reduction or component reliability improvements.

• Documentation of compliance with military aviation maintenance regulations and standards (e.g., NAMP, COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2).

• Records of hazardous material handling and disposal processes, ensuring environmental and safety compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an aircraft mechanic role, a traditional "operations portfolio" might be less common than in pure RevOps or Sales Ops. However, candidates are expected to demonstrate their practical skills and adherence to process. This section frames that expectation in terms of documented experience and process understanding, which can be showcased through resumes, certifications, and potentially a detailed logbook or work history if permitted.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided information states a base salary of USD $47.67 per hour for Maryland.

• This translates to an annual base salary of approximately $99,153.60 (assuming a 40-hour work week, 52 weeks a year).

• A Union Flex Benefit Credit of USD $3.00/HR ($6,240 annually) and an Opt-Out Health Credit of USD $3.15/HR ($6,552 annually) are also offered, adding significantly to the total compensation.

• Total potential compensation (base + flex benefit credit) would be approximately $105,393.60 annually. Benefits:

• Healthcare coverage

• Life insurance, AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment)

• Disability benefits

• Retirement plan

• Wellness programs

• Paid time off, including holidays and leave of absences

• Eligible Tuition Reimbursement

• Learning and Development resources

• Employee assistance resources

• Overtime pay

• Premium Pay

• Differential Pay

• Compressed Work Schedule options Working Hours:

• The role is full-time, typically implying a 40-hour work week.

• Options for a Compressed Work Schedule may be available, offering flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is provided as an hourly rate ($47.67/hr) for Maryland. This has been converted to an annual figure for clarity. The additional "Union Flex Benefit Credit" and "Opt-Out Health Credit" are significant components of total compensation and must be highlighted. The other listed benefits are standard but detailed enough to be valuable.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government & Defense Contracting / Aerospace & Defense. V2X operates in sectors providing critical support services to government and military entities, focusing on mission success and operational resilience.

Company Size: V2X is a large enterprise, likely employing thousands of individuals globally, given its scope in defense contracting. This size suggests structured processes, established career paths, and potentially complex organizational hierarchies.

Founded: V2X was formed through the merger of Vectrus and Vertex Aerospace, bringing together extensive history and expertise in defense and aerospace services. This merger implies a culture that values experience, integration, and continuous improvement.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the Naval Test Wing Atlantic (NTWL) program, indicating a team that works closely with naval aviation operations and testing.

• The team likely consists of skilled aircraft mechanics, technicians, engineers, and support staff dedicated to supporting advanced aircraft testing and evaluation.

• Reporting structure will involve a direct supervisor or lead technician, with potential for team leadership as experience grows.

• Cross-functional collaboration will be essential, involving interaction with pilots, test engineers, program managers, and logistics personnel. Methodology:

• Emphasis on rigorous adherence to military maintenance standards and procedures (NAMP, COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2).

• Data-driven approach to troubleshooting and repair, utilizing technical documentation and diagnostic tools.

• Process optimization focused on ensuring aircraft safety, reliability, and operational readiness for testing missions.

• Automation and efficiency are important, but safety and compliance are paramount in this defense sector role.

Company Website: https://careers.gov2x.com

📝 Enhancement Note: V2X's background as a merged entity of Vectrus and Vertex Aerospace is important context. This implies a company with a strong legacy in defense services, which influences its culture, operational rigor, and career development opportunities. The specific program (NTWL) and aircraft (MQ-9) ground the role in a specialized operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as an experienced Aircraft Mechanic. It requires a solid foundation in aircraft systems maintenance and troubleshooting, with a minimum of 2-4 years of hands-on experience. It's a critical role for ensuring the operational readiness of advanced aircraft used in testing and evaluation.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a supervisor or higher-level technician. There's an expectation of receiving technical guidance, but also the potential to lead teams on more complex tasks, suggesting a pathway towards team lead or supervisory roles for high performers.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is direct and critical. By ensuring the MQ-9 Reaper aircraft are maintained to the highest standards, this mechanic directly contributes to the success of the Naval Test Wing Atlantic's mission. This includes enabling vital flight testing, data collection, and operational evaluations that inform future defense capabilities and aircraft development. The reliability of the aircraft directly impacts the safety of flight crews and the integrity of test results.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in MQ-9 Reaper systems or transition to specialized areas like avionics, hydraulics, or power plants.

• Leadership Development: Progress to roles such as Lead Aircraft Mechanic, Team Lead, or Supervisor, mentoring junior technicians and managing maintenance teams.

• Advanced Training: Access company-sponsored training and certifications to enhance skills in new aircraft technologies, diagnostic tools, or specific maintenance procedures.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Opportunities to move into quality assurance, training, or program management roles within V2X's broader defense contracting operations.

• Higher Security Clearances: Potential to gain access to roles requiring higher-level security clearances with continued service and demonstrated reliability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed around specialization within aircraft maintenance, progression into leadership roles common in structured military support environments, and leveraging company resources for continuous learning. The mention of higher security clearances is a key advancement factor in this industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work is primarily conducted in an aircraft maintenance hangar environment, which involves working alongside operational aircraft. This environment is characterized by industrial settings, large open spaces, and the presence of heavy machinery and equipment. Outdoor work on the flight line is also expected.

Office Location(s): Patuxent River, MD. This location is a significant hub for naval aviation testing and development, placing the role within a specialized ecosystem of defense contractors and military operations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is dynamic, often noisy due to aircraft operations, and may involve exposure to various weather conditions if working on the flight line.

• Access to specialized tools, diagnostic equipment, and technical manuals is standard.

• Collaboration is frequent, requiring close coordination with fellow mechanics, supervisors, pilots, and engineers.

• The environment demands strict adherence to safety protocols and procedures due to the inherent risks associated with aircraft maintenance.

Work Schedule: Full-time employment, typically 40 hours per week. The possibility of a compressed work schedule exists, which could offer extended weekends or modified daily hours. Flexibility may be required to support operational needs, including potential overtime or irregular hours depending on flight schedules and mission requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description highlights the demanding physical environment typical of aircraft maintenance, including noise, potential weather exposure, and the need for physical stamina. The specific location is a key piece of context for understanding the operational environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to ensure minimum qualifications (education, experience, clearances) are met.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on aircraft systems knowledge, troubleshooting methodologies, and experience with specific aircraft types (MQ-9). Expect questions on NAMP, technical order interpretation, and common maintenance challenges.

• Practical Assessment/Case Study: A scenario-based question or a review of past work samples/portfolio to assess problem-solving skills, process adherence, and technical proficiency. This could involve describing how to troubleshoot a specific malfunction or how a complex repair was performed.

• Team/Culture Fit Interview: Meeting with potential supervisors or team members to assess collaboration skills, work ethic, and alignment with V2X's culture and the NTWL program's operational tempo.

• Security Clearance Verification: The process will include verification and initiation of the Secret security clearance if not already held.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For this role, a "portfolio" is less about formal documents and more about clearly articulating your experience and skills on your resume and during interviews. Highlight specific achievements, complex repairs handled, and contributions to aircraft readiness.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss specific aircraft systems (engines, hydraulics, structures, avionics) in detail. Quantify your experience where possible (e.g., "maintained X number of aircraft," "reduced component failure rate by Y%").

• Process Adherence: Emphasize your understanding and application of maintenance procedures, technical orders, and safety protocols.

• Problem-Solving Examples: Have 2-3 detailed examples ready of challenging troubleshooting scenarios you've encountered and how you resolved them, including the tools and documentation used.

• MQ-9 Specifics: If you have direct MQ-9 experience, make that exceptionally clear. If not, draw parallels from experience with similar advanced fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft.

Challenge Preparation:

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: Practice diagnosing issues based on fault descriptions. Consider common failure modes for aircraft systems.

• Procedure Recall: Be ready to discuss the steps involved in critical maintenance procedures, such as engine removal/installation, structural repair, or pre-flight inspections.

• Safety & Compliance: Prepare to discuss your approach to safety, hazardous material handling, and adherence to regulatory requirements like NAMP.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a hands-on technical role like Aircraft Mechanic, the "portfolio" is largely demonstrated through the resume, specific examples provided in interviews, and potentially through certifications or training records. The interview process will heavily lean on practical knowledge and experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Comprehensive set of specialized aircraft mechanic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, etc.).

• Precision Measuring Instruments: Torque wrenches, dial indicators, micrometers, calipers for precise adjustments and measurements.

• Diagnostic Equipment: Aircraft-specific diagnostic tools and testers for electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.

• Sheet Metal Tools: Brakes, sheers, rivet guns, and forming tools for structural repairs.

• Lifting Equipment: Hoists, forklifts, and engine stands for handling heavy components.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Technical Publications: Access to and proficiency in using digital and hard-copy technical orders (TOs), maintenance manuals, and blueprints.

• Aircraft Logs & Records: Systems for documenting maintenance actions, inspections, and repairs.

CRM & Automation:

• NALCOMIS (Naval Aviation Maintenance and Information System): Experience with this or similar naval aviation maintenance tracking systems is highly beneficial for managing work orders, parts, and maintenance history.

• NAMP (Naval Aviation Maintenance Program): Understanding the principles and procedures outlined in NAMP is critical for compliance and operational effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for an aircraft mechanic is heavily tool- and documentation-centric. The emphasis is on specialized physical tools and digital/paper documentation, with NALCOMIS being a key system for naval aviation roles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: Unwavering commitment to safety protocols and procedures to protect personnel, aircraft, and mission integrity.

• Precision & Accuracy: Dedication to meticulous work, ensuring all repairs and maintenance are performed to exact specifications.

• Reliability & Readiness: A strong sense of responsibility for maintaining aircraft in peak operational condition to support critical test missions.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and other departments to achieve shared goals.

• Continuous Improvement: Proactively identifying opportunities to enhance maintenance processes, efficiency, and skill sets.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct Communication: Clear and concise communication is essential, especially in a noisy hangar environment and when relaying critical technical information.

• Mutual Support: Mechanics often work in teams and rely on each other for assistance, knowledge sharing, and safety oversight.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Working closely with pilots, engineers, and logistics personnel requires an ability to understand and communicate across different technical disciplines.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback on maintenance procedures and performance to ensure quality and safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style are standard for high-stakes technical environments like defense aviation. The emphasis on safety, precision, and teamwork is paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Troubleshooting: Diagnosing intermittent or novel malfunctions in sophisticated aircraft systems requires deep analytical skills and persistence.

• Environmental Demands: Working in potentially noisy, physically demanding, and weather-exposed conditions can be challenging.

• Regulatory Compliance: Keeping up-to-date with and strictly adhering to evolving military maintenance regulations (NAMP, TOs) requires continuous learning.

• MQ-9 Specifics: Gaining and maintaining expertise on the specific systems and quirks of the MQ-9 Reaper, especially if transitioning from other aircraft types.

• Security Requirements: Maintaining a Secret security clearance and the associated responsibilities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Extensive hands-on learning opportunities under experienced mechanics and supervisors.

• Specialized Courses: Access to training programs for specific aircraft systems, diagnostic tools, or advanced repair techniques.

• Certification Programs: Opportunities to obtain or maintain industry-recognized certifications relevant to aviation maintenance.

• Mentorship: Guidance from senior technicians and potential leadership roles to develop mentoring skills.

• Industry Conferences/Workshops: Potential for exposure to new technologies and best practices in aviation maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are directly tied to the technical complexity and operational environment. Growth is framed around skill enhancement, specialization, and leadership within the aviation maintenance field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you encountered a particularly challenging aircraft malfunction. How did you diagnose it, what steps did you take to resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your systematic approach, use of technical documentation, and problem-solving skills.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with strict maintenance procedures and safety regulations like NAMP and technical orders?" (Highlight your attention to detail, understanding of regulatory importance, and commitment to safety.)

• "Imagine you need to replace a critical component on the MQ-9 during a tight testing schedule. How would you prioritize your tasks, manage your time, and coordinate with your team?" (Assess your prioritization, time management, and teamwork skills under pressure.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for V2X and specifically on the Naval Test Wing Atlantic program?" (Research V2X's mission, values, and the NTWL program's role.)

• "How do you handle working in a demanding, potentially noisy, and physically challenging environment like an aircraft hangar?" (Showcase your adaptability, resilience, and commitment to the job requirements.)

• "Describe your experience working as part of a maintenance team. How do you contribute to team cohesion and success?" (Focus on collaboration, communication, and mutual support.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as Portfolio: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience with specific aircraft systems, repair types, tools used, and any relevant certifications or training. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Anecdotal Evidence: Be prepared to verbally "walk through" your most significant projects or challenging repairs during the interview, highlighting the process, your role, and the results.

• Technical Documentation Familiarity: Be ready to discuss your experience using technical orders, maintenance manuals, and diagnostic software. If asked, explain how you would find and interpret a specific piece of technical data.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical skills, problem-solving abilities, adherence to process, and cultural fit within a defense aviation context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this aircraft mechanic position:

• Submit your application through the V2X careers portal at https://careers.gov2x.com.

• Tailor your Resume: Ensure your resume prominently features your experience with MQ-9 Reaper or similar aircraft, detailing specific systems you've worked on (engines, hydraulics, structures, etc.), tools used, and adherence to aviation maintenance standards (NAMP, TOs).

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Review common aircraft maintenance procedures, troubleshooting techniques, and the principles of NAMP. Be ready to discuss your experience with technical documentation.

• Practice Your Stories: Develop clear, concise examples of your troubleshooting successes, complex repairs, and teamwork experiences to share during the interview.

• Research V2X and NTWL: Understand the company's mission and the specific role of the Naval Test Wing Atlantic program to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.