Manufacturing Engineering, Fluid Systems Verified today

Vast · Long Beach, CA · Propulsion · first seen 2026-10-31

The Role

You'll help develop the systems behind our human-rated space stations. Using engineering knowledge and creativity, you'll design, build, and test novel solutions at the cutting edge of space technology.

This is a full-time, exempt position located in Long Beach, CA.

Responsibilities

  • Conceptualize, develop, and manufacture innovative tube-bending and welding cells to meet Haven-1 program requirements
  • Lead first-build and test efforts, including design integration, assembly sequencing, mBOM development, work order creation, and specification authoring
  • Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent production of tubing systems
  • Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges through root-cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions
  • Apply critical thinking and problem-solving to challenge assumptions and drive efficient human-spaceflight production within aggressive timelines
  • Collaborate closely with design engineers, integration engineers, production teams, and external vendors to execute builds efficiently
  • Develop efficient, capability-driven tooling solutions that streamline production and reduce operational burden
  • Partner with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes
  • Establish standard practices, troubleshooting guides, and standardized repair procedures; review and approve related planning documents
  • Support day-to-day production of bent tubes, orbital tube welding, and manually welded tubing, ensuring optimal efficiency and quality adherence
  • Evaluate and challenge existing production and design requirements for tubing assemblies using data-driven insights to optimize manufacturing
  • Continuously improve production systems by identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality

Minimum Qualifications

  • B.S. in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing or electrical engineering, physics, mathematics, or related technical field
  • 2+ years of manufacturing experience managing a product or product line across multiple work centers and departments; experience with fluid, pressurized, propulsion, or environmental control hardware in design, manufacturing, or test
  • Hands-on fabrication, assembly, and integration experience
  • CAD proficiency, preferably Siemens NX
  • Ability to review designs, generate manufacturing documentation, and design assembly or test tooling

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Hands-on experience building or testing hardware through Formula SAE, rocketry, CubeSat, or robotics
  • Experience with aerospace, spacecraft, propulsion, or safety-critical hardware
  • Experience taking designs from concept through build, test, and from R&D to production
  • Familiarity with PLM tools such as Teamcenter
  • Thermal or structural analysis using Ansys or similar tools
  • Knowledge of aerospace workmanship and environmental test standards such as IPC, SMC-S-016, NASA-STD-5001, or MIL-STD-810
  • GD&T proficiency
  • Strong problem-solving and structured root cause analysis skills
  • Attention to detail, clear communication, and cross-functional team collaboration
  • For Senior Level: experience mentoring engineers and managing multiple projects

Additional Requirements

  • Willingness to work evenings and weekends to support critical mission milestones

Compensation

Pay ranges by level:

  • Engineer Level I: $86,100 to $122,220 per year
  • Engineer Level II: $112,340 to $159,468 per year
  • Senior Engineer Level III: $137,760 to $195,552 per year

Compensation is calibrated to your experience and demonstrated capability. Full-time employees receive company equity and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid time off (20+ days for exempt staff); paid parental leave; disability and life insurance; 401(k) plan; mental healthcare through Spring Health; and free snacks, coffee, cold drinks, and dinner, with subsidized lunch.