Staff Environmental Test Engineer Verified today

About Vast

Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure. Haven Demo's 2025 success made Vast the only operational commercial space station company to fly and operate its own spacecraft. Haven-1 is expected to become the world's first commercial space station when it launches in 2027. Vast has also announced Vast Satellite, a high-power satellite product line. Headquartered in Long Beach, California, Vast has built the facilities required to manufacture and operate America's next space station.

The Role

You will work as a Staff Environmental Test Engineer reporting to the Senior Manager of Environmental Test. You will support the development of systems for artificial-gravity human-rated space stations, playing a crucial role in the development and manufacturing of advanced avionics systems for Vast's portfolio of space products, including liquid rocket engines and a commercial space station. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams of design and test engineers and technicians to ensure successful manufacturing, assembly, and integration of avionics components and wire harnesses.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with design teams to provide input on manufacturability and assembly processes of avionics components and wire harnesses
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes and onboard equipment for avionics systems, considering efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness
• Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent and accurate production
• Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges by conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions
• Work closely with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of high-quality avionics components, reviewing and approving supplier manufacturing processes
• Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of avionics systems, ensuring compliance with engineering specifications and industry standards
• Participate in design reviews, providing insights to improve manufacturability and reliability of avionics components
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in avionics manufacturing

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in aerospace or avionics industry

Preferred Skills and Experience

• 3+ years of experience in design and manufacturing of vibration test fixtures
• 3+ years of experience in design and manufacturing of thermal heat sinks and thermal vacuum fixtures
• Understanding of SMC-S-016
• Strong understanding of avionics systems, electronics manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques
• Proficiency in CAD software such as Siemens NX for reviewing designs and creating manufacturing documentation
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations relevant to avionics manufacturing, such as IPC standards
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to perform root cause analysis
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams
• Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting avionics systems
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work overtime or weekends to support critical mission milestones
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted

Employment Details

This is a full-time, exempt position located in Long Beach, CA. Base salary ranges from $160,000 to $230,000 USD depending on experience and demonstrated capability.

Compensation and Benefits

Full-time employees receive company equity and access to a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents; generous paid time off with 20+ days of vacation for exempt staff with ability to cash out unused vacation annually; paid parental leave; short and long-term disability insurance; life insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; ClassPass credits; personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health; and other discounts and perks. Free snacks, drip coffee, onsite barista, cold drinks, and dinner meals; subsidized lunch.

Export Control Compliance

The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls. You must either be a U.S. person as defined by 22 C.F.R. Section 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. This includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.