PRESS RELEASE •
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE •
August 31, 2010 •

LAS CRUCES, NM – The New Mexico Spaceport Authority (NMSA) is accepting applications for a Deputy Director to oversee the daily operations of Spaceport America, the world's first purpose-built commercial spaceport. This position announcement marks another significant milestone as the historic project transitions from a construction site to an operating spaceport.

The Deputy Director will be responsible for flight and ground safety, tenant relations, FAA compliance programs, and technical, security and maintenance services.

“The Deputy Director will run the day to day operations and work directly with our primary service contractors," said Rick Homans, Executive Director of the NMSA. "This individual will ensure that we safely accomplish our mission to assist private companies to launch people and payloads into space."

Homans said Spaceport America is seeking an individual with a bachelor's degree, preferably in an engineering discipline, with a master’s or other advanced degree preferred. A minimum of five years management and financial/operations experience is required, and the applicant must have applicable experience in the space industry.

NMSA expects that applicants will come from New Mexico and from across the country. The Deputy Director will start on the job January 1, 2011, Homans said. The state government position will report directly to the Executive Director of NMSA and the salary is dependent on experience.

Spaceport America has been providing commercial launch services since 2006. The spaceport is located near Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. The state-of-the-art launch facility is expected to become fully operational in 2011. Officials at Spaceport America have been working closely with leading aerospace firms such as Virgin Galactic, Lockheed Martin, Moog-FTS, and UP Aerospace to develop commercial spaceflight at the new facility. The economic impact of launches, tourism and new construction at Spaceport America are already delivering on its promise to the people of New Mexico.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, salary history and references to:

Deputy Director Search Committee, New Mexico Spaceport Authority

901 E. University Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88001