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

📍 Job Overview

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

Company: V2X Inc

Location: Patuxent River, MD

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Aircraft Maintenance Operations

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Perform critical maintenance and repair operations on MQ-9 Reaper aircraft systems, ensuring airworthiness and operational readiness for Naval Test Wing Atlantic (NTWL).

• Execute detailed troubleshooting procedures for aircraft structure, landing gear, flight surfaces, controls, and various complex systems, including engines, auxiliary power units, and environmental controls.

• Read, interpret, and apply technical documentation, including blueprints and manufacturer manuals, to diagnose and resolve moderate to complex aircraft malfunctions.

• Conduct routine and specialized maintenance tasks, encompassing component replacement, structural repairs, and system servicing, adhering to stringent military and company standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is highly specialized, focusing on advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) maintenance within a government testing and evaluation environment. The emphasis on MQ-9 Reaper systems and the Naval Test Wing Atlantic context indicates a need for deep technical expertise in a mission-critical operational setting.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot malfunctions in aircraft structure, landing gear, flight surfaces and controls, anti-icing, pneudraulic, engines, auxiliary power unit, and ventilation and heating systems to ensure aircraft remains in safe operating condition.

• Maintain, repair, and modify aircraft structures and structural components of moderate difficulty, applying expertise in airframe and power plant systems.

• Replace or repair worn or damaged components such as carburetors, alternators, magnetos, fuel controls, fuel pumps, oil pumps, and engine mounted gearboxes using hand tools, gauges, and testing equipment.

• Perform engine removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including reinstalling engines in aircraft.

• Adjust, repair, or replace electrical wiring systems and aircraft accessories, and perform pre-flight, through-flight, and post-flight maintenance inspections.

• Service aircraft components, including flushing crankcases, cleaning screens and filters, greasing moving parts, and checking brakes, as part of daily operational readiness.

• Execute specialized tasks in the repair and modification of structural, precision, and functional spare parts and assemblies, potentially specializing in engine repair.

• Supervise aircraft jacking and towing operations, verifying satisfactory completion of work.

• Make entries in aircraft logs and records, ensuring accurate documentation of all maintenance activities.

• Prioritize workload to maintain schedules on assigned projects, ensuring timely completion of critical maintenance tasks.

• Comply with all applicable sections of COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2 series and Naval Aviation Maintenance Program (NAMP) guidelines.

• Utilize technical publications, NAMP, and NALCOMIS aircraft maintenance applications effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on, detail-oriented role requiring a strong understanding of aviation maintenance protocols, particularly within a military context. The mention of NAMP and NALCOMIS points to specific system knowledge crucial for success.

🎓 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 similar fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft. Four (4) years 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 knowledge of electrical theory relevant to aircraft systems.

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

• Working knowledge of technical publications and maintenance manuals.

• Ability to prioritize workload effectively to maintain project schedules.

• Working knowledge of corrosion control techniques and procedures for handling and disposal of hazardous waste materials.

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

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

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

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

Preferred Skills:

• Experience specifically with the MQ-9 Reaper UAV platform.

• Familiarity with Naval Aviation Maintenance Program (NAMP) and Naval Aviation Logistics Command Information Management System (NALCOMIS).

• Experience in a government or military testing and evaluation environment.

• Proficiency in advanced diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques for complex avionics and mechanical systems.

• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience on aircraft maintenance projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on MQ-9 Reaper experience and military maintenance systems (NAMP, NALCOMIS) suggests a preference for candidates with direct, specialized knowledge highly relevant to the operational environment. The security clearance requirement is a critical gate for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies demonstrating successful troubleshooting and resolution of complex aircraft system malfunctions, specifically for fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft.

• Documentation of process improvements implemented in maintenance workflows, highlighting efficiency gains or safety enhancements.

• Examples of technical documentation interpretation and application in repair scenarios, showcasing problem-solving abilities.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow diagrams or descriptions of maintenance procedures followed for routine inspections and repairs.

• Documentation of experience with aircraft logging and record-keeping systems, emphasizing accuracy and compliance.

• Records of training or certifications related to aircraft maintenance, structural repair, or specific system overhauls.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an aircraft mechanic role, a "portfolio" typically translates to a detailed resume highlighting specific projects, types of aircraft worked on, and quantifiable achievements in maintenance and repair. This section emphasizes the need to showcase practical application of skills and adherence to rigorous aviation maintenance standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Base Hourly Rate: $47.67 USD

• Union Flex Benefit Credit: $3.00/HR

• Opt-Out Health Credit (if applicable): $3.15/HR

Total potential hourly compensation (including credits): Up to $53.82/HR, depending on benefit opt-out status.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Healthcare coverage.

• Life insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), and Disability benefits.

• Retirement plan contributions.

• Wellness programs to support employee health and well-being.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including holidays and leave of absences.

• Eligible Tuition Reimbursement for continuing education.

• Access to Learning and Development resources for professional growth.

• Employee Assistance Resources for personal and professional support.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (Full-Time). Potential for overtime, premium pay, differential pay, and compressed work schedules may be available based on operational needs and company policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary is a specific hourly rate, not a range. The inclusion of "Union Flex Benefit Credit" and "Opt-Out Health Credit" suggests a unionized environment or specific benefit structure that allows for additional compensation based on benefit choices. The total potential compensation is calculated by adding these credits to the base rate.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting / Aerospace & Defense. V2X Inc. provides mission-critical services to defense and government clients, focusing on logistics, training, and operational support, particularly in aerospace and aviation sectors.

Company Size: V2X Inc. is a significant employer, indicating a large, established organization with a wide range of resources and opportunities, likely structured with multiple departments and teams.

Founded: V2X Inc. was formed through the merger of Vectrus and Vertex, bringing together extensive experience in government services. This history suggests a company with a deep understanding of defense contracting and a commitment to long-term operational support.

Team Structure:

• The Aircraft Mechanic will likely be part of a dedicated maintenance team within the Naval Test Wing Atlantic (NTWL) operations at Patuxent River, MD.

• This team is expected to be composed of skilled technicians, potentially including leads or supervisors, reporting to a maintenance manager or program lead.

Methodology:

• Adherence to stringent military aviation maintenance standards (e.g., NAMP, COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2) is paramount.

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making for maintenance scheduling and repairs, utilizing systems like NALCOMIS.

• Focus on continuous improvement in maintenance processes to enhance aircraft readiness, safety, and operational efficiency.

• A strong safety culture is integral, with strict protocols for handling hazardous materials and ensuring personnel safety in a high-risk environment.

Company Website: https://gov2x.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's background in government contracting and aerospace implies a highly structured, compliance-driven work environment. The specific mention of NTWL suggests this role is critical for supporting advanced aviation testing and development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a skilled technical position within aviation maintenance operations. It is an entry to mid-level role for experienced mechanics, with potential for advancement into more specialized technical roles or supervisory positions within aircraft maintenance.

Reporting Structure: This position reports to a supervisor or lead technician within the MQ-9 maintenance team at NTWL. The role may involve occasional guidance to less experienced technicians on complex tasks.

Operations Impact: The mechanic's work directly impacts the operational readiness and safety of MQ-9 aircraft used for critical testing and evaluation by the U.S. Navy. Ensuring aircraft availability and airworthiness is vital for the success of NTWL's mission, contributing directly to national defense capabilities and technological advancement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Opportunity to gain deep expertise in MQ-9 Reaper systems or other advanced UAV platforms, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Leadership: Potential to advance into roles such as Lead Aircraft Mechanic, Maintenance Supervisor, or Quality Assurance Inspector, managing teams and overseeing maintenance operations.

• Training & Certification: Access to company-sponsored training for advanced aviation technologies, certifications, and specialized repair techniques, enhancing professional development.

• Cross-functional Roles: Possibility to move into related fields within V2X Inc., such as logistics, training, or program management, leveraging operational experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for an Aircraft Mechanic in this environment is typically specialized within aviation maintenance, with clear routes towards leadership or deep technical expertise. The government contracting nature of V2X Inc. suggests stability and potential for long-term career development within the defense sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily a hands-on, operational environment within aircraft maintenance hangars and flight line areas at Naval Air Station Patuxent River. This is not a traditional office setting.

Office Location(s): Patuxent River, MD, specifically within facilities managed by the Naval Test Wing Atlantic (NTWL).

Workspace Context:

• Exposure to aircraft noise, fumes, and potential hazards inherent in an active flight operations and maintenance environment.

• Requires working in various conditions, including extreme weather, and potentially in rudimentary infrastructure areas.

• Emphasis on safety protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE), and adherence to strict operational procedures.

• Access to specialized tools, equipment, and technical publications is provided to facilitate maintenance tasks.

• Highly collaborative environment requiring constant communication and coordination with team members, supervisors, and other operational personnel.

Work Schedule: Typically 40 hours per week. However, the nature of flight line operations and testing schedules may require flexibility, including potential overtime, weekend work, or shifts to support critical mission requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role demands adaptability to a physically demanding and potentially challenging work environment. The emphasis on safety and operational continuity is critical, and candidates should be prepared for non-standard working conditions and schedules.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and qualifications to ensure basic requirements (experience, education, security clearance eligibility) are met.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on aircraft maintenance knowledge, troubleshooting skills, experience with MQ-9 or similar aircraft, and understanding of aviation maintenance protocols (NAMP, technical orders). Candidates may be asked to describe past maintenance challenges and solutions.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): A hands-on assessment or scenario-based question simulating a maintenance task or troubleshooting problem to evaluate practical skills and problem-solving approach.

• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of teamwork, communication, safety consciousness, and ability to work within a structured, military-supported environment. Questions will likely explore how candidates handle pressure and prioritize tasks.

• Security Clearance Verification: Process initiation or confirmation of eligibility for a secret security clearance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight MQ-9 or Relevant Aircraft Experience: Clearly detail your experience with the MQ-9 Reaper or comparable fixed-wing/rotary-wing aircraft platforms. Quantify your experience where possible (e.g., number of years, types of systems worked on).

• Showcase Troubleshooting Skills: Provide specific examples of complex troubleshooting scenarios you've encountered and resolved. Detail your methodology, the tools used, and the outcome.

• Demonstrate Technical Documentation Proficiency: Explain how you use technical manuals, blueprints, and maintenance directives to guide your work.

• Emphasize Safety and Compliance: Detail your understanding and application of aviation safety protocols, hazardous material handling, and regulatory compliance (NAMP, etc.).

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to describe your impact (e.g., improved aircraft availability by X%, reduced repair time for Y issue).

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical maintenance issues or complex system failures. Think through your diagnostic steps, tools, and potential solutions.

• NAMP/Technical Order Knowledge: Refresh your understanding of key principles within the Naval Aviation Maintenance Program and how technical orders are structured and utilized.

• Safety Procedures: Review standard safety practices for aircraft maintenance, including PPE usage, lockout/tagout procedures, and hazardous material handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will heavily emphasize technical competence, practical experience with relevant aircraft, and a strong understanding of military aviation maintenance standards. A well-documented resume that acts as a "portfolio" of skills and experience is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Comprehensive set of standard and specialized aircraft mechanic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, torque wrenches, micrometers, dial indicators).

• Power Tools: Air-powered drills, impact wrenches, grinders, and other specialized power tools for fabrication and repair.

• Diagnostic Equipment: Aircraft-specific diagnostic tools, multimeters, oscilloscopes, pressure gauges, and continuity testers for system checks.

• Lifting Equipment: Hoists, forklifts, and specialized stands for engine removal, aircraft jacking, and positioning.

Analytics & Reporting:

• NALCOMIS (Naval Aviation Logistics Command Information Management System): Essential for tracking maintenance history, work orders, parts inventory, and aircraft status. Proficiency is a significant advantage.

• Technical Publications Database: Access and utilization of digital libraries for maintenance manuals, technical orders (TOs), and service bulletins.

CRM & Automation:

• Work Order Systems: Internal company or military systems for managing and tracking maintenance tasks and assignments.

• Inventory Management Systems: Tools for tracking aircraft parts, consumables, and materials required for maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with NALCOMIS is a key differentiator for this role, as it is the primary system for tracking maintenance within the Naval aviation community. A strong understanding of technical documentation and diagnostic equipment is fundamental.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: An unwavering commitment to safety in all operations, from personal protective equipment usage to adherence to strict maintenance procedures.

• Mission Focus: Dedication to ensuring aircraft readiness and operational success, understanding the critical role of maintenance in supporting the NTWL mission.

• Technical Excellence: Striving for high standards in all maintenance and repair work, characterized by precision, accuracy, and thoroughness.

• Integrity and Accountability: Upholding honesty, reliability, and taking responsibility for one's work and its impact on aircraft safety and mission success.

• Teamwork: Valuing collaboration and mutual support among team members to achieve shared objectives and overcome challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct and Clear Communication: Essential for safety and efficiency in a high-tempo operational environment.

• Mutual Respect: Fostering an environment where all team members' contributions are valued, regardless of role or experience level.

• Process-Oriented: Working within established procedures and protocols to ensure consistency and compliance.

• Problem-Solving Focused: Collaborating actively to diagnose issues, share knowledge, and find effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely mirrors that of a military aviation unit, emphasizing discipline, precision, teamwork, and a shared commitment to mission success and safety.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex System Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and repairing intricate issues within advanced MQ-9 systems, requiring deep technical knowledge and analytical skills.

• Environmental Factors: Working in potentially demanding conditions, including extreme weather, noise, and hazardous materials, while maintaining focus and safety.

• Strict Compliance: Adhering to rigorous military maintenance regulations and documentation requirements, where errors can have significant consequences.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying updated with evolving MQ-9 system modifications, upgrades, and new maintenance technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized MQ-9 Training: Potential for advanced manufacturer-specific training on MQ-9 systems and components.

• Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn about other aircraft systems or maintenance specializations within the NTWL environment.

• NAMP & Technical Order Expertise: Deepening knowledge of naval aviation maintenance policies and procedures through practical application and ongoing training.

• Career Advancement: Pathways to supervisory roles, quality assurance, or specialized technical expert positions within V2X Inc.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for specialized skill development in a critical, high-tech aviation field. The challenges are inherent to advanced aircraft maintenance and contribute to professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to troubleshoot a complex mechanical or electrical issue on an aircraft. What was your process, what tools did you use, and what was the resolution?" (Focus on methodology, technical skills, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with maintenance regulations and documentation standards, such as NAMP or technical orders?" (Assess understanding of aviation maintenance protocols and attention to detail.)

• "How would you prioritize your workload if you had multiple critical maintenance tasks with competing deadlines?" (Evaluate organizational skills and ability to manage pressure.)

• "Describe your experience working with MQ-9 Reaper aircraft or similar unmanned aerial systems." (Gauge direct relevance of experience.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about V2X Inc. and our role in supporting defense and government operations?" (Demonstrate research and interest.)

• "How do you handle working in a team environment, especially under pressure?" (Assess teamwork and communication skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as Portfolio: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience with specific aircraft types, systems worked on, and your responsibilities. Use action verbs and quantify achievements where possible.

• STAR Method: For behavioral questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide clear, concise, and impactful examples of your experience.

• Technical Knowledge: Be prepared to discuss specific aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and common issues you've encountered. Referencing technical documentation (like TOs) demonstrates familiarity.

• MQ-9 Focus: If you have direct MQ-9 experience, be ready to elaborate on it in detail. If not, draw parallels from your experience with similar complex aircraft systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate a blend of strong technical skills, practical experience, a deep understanding of aviation maintenance protocols, and an ability to work effectively in a disciplined, mission-oriented environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the V2X Inc. careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights all relevant aircraft maintenance experience, specifically mentioning MQ-9 Reaper or comparable fixed-wing/rotary-wing aircraft, and any experience with NAMP or NALCOMIS. Quantify achievements and responsibilities whenever possible.

• Prepare Your "Portfolio": Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience that showcase your troubleshooting skills, technical knowledge, adherence to safety protocols, and ability to interpret technical documentation.

• Research V2X Inc. and NTWL: Understand the company's mission and V2X's role in government contracting. Familiarize yourself with the Naval Test Wing Atlantic's function and the importance of MQ-9 aircraft in their operations.

• Practice Technical Scenarios: Review common aircraft maintenance challenges and practice articulating your diagnostic and repair processes using the STAR method.

⚠️ 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.

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