Vast is seeking a Manager, Thermal Control Systems, reporting to the Senior Manager, Thermal Control Systems Hardware, to lead the development of the thermal and fluid systems that enable artificial gravity and long-term human habitation in space. In this role, you will guide a small team of mechanical engineers while also contributing directly to system architecture, design, and test. You will shape mission-critical hardware that must operate flawlessly in orbit and play a key role in advancing human-rated spaceflight.

This full-time, exempt role is based in Long Beach, CA.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and mentor a team of mechanical engineers responsible for thermal and fluid system hardware.
• Set technical direction, prioritize development efforts, and foster a culture of ownership and continuous improvement.
• Provide guidance on design decisions, analyses, and test plans, ensuring high-quality engineering outputs.
• Manage workloads, support professional development, and ensure on-time execution of deliverables.

Technical Ownership

• Own the architecture and performance of thermal control system hardware, including tubing, trays, and fluid loops.
• Lead hardware through its full lifecycle—from design trades through manufacturing, qualification, launch prep, and on-orbit operation.
• Drive rapid prototyping and iterative testing to mature designs in a fast-paced environment.
• Oversee systems engineering tasks, including analyses, requirements, and cross-team integration (i.e. Avionics, Software, Mission Operations, etc.)
• Lead internal and external design reviews and ensure hardware meets human-rated reliability and safety requirements.
• Ensure manufacturable, production-ready designs and collaborate closely with technicians, manufacturing engineers, and integration teams.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related discipline
• Experience working with fluid systems
• 5+ years of hands-on hardware experience (fabrication, assembly, and/or testing)
• 1+ year leading or mentoring engineers

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Leadership experience in a fast-paced hardware development environment
• Ownership of mechanical or fluid systems across multiple development phases
• Strong problem-solving and root-cause analysis skills
• First-principles engineering and ability to guide team-level trade studies
• Experience with rotating machinery
• Proficiency in NX, GD&T, and tolerance analysis
• Structural analysis experience (hand calcs, FEMAP, ANSYS)
• Familiarity with machining, welding, brazing, and tube bending
• Excellent communication and leadership skills in a mission-driven environment

Additional Requirements

• Ability to travel up to 5%
• Willingness to support occasional evening or weekend work during critical mission phases

Pay Range: 

• Manager, Thermal Control Systems: $135,800 - $176,400

Vast is looking for a Thermal Control Systems Senior Mechanical Engineer, reporting to the Manager, Thermal Control Hardware to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. 

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach, CA location. 

Responsibilities: 

• Own the design and development of thermal control system and components for our artificial-gravity space station, from initial design trades to fully functional and validated system
• Possible thermal components include heat exchangers, cold plates, heaters, heat pipes, etc…
• Iterate on manufacturing processes and development testing in a fast-paced environment
• Own the project delivery timeline from early design through production, launch, and orbit insertion
• Perform systems engineering tasks and fluid analyses
• Lead design reviews internally and externally with suppliers and customers
• Work with interdisciplinary stakeholders to ensure the component will integrate with the necessary avionics, software, and mission operations systems
• Make sure that all designs are manufacturable and reliable
• Bring technical excellence to everything you do

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or other engineering discipline
• Experience working with fluid systems or components
• 5+ years of hands-on hardware experience performing fabrication, assembly and/or testing

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• 4+ years of experience working with fluid systems or components
• Demonstrated ability to own hardware or systems within an integrated engineering team outside a classroom setting
• 4+ years of hands-on hardware experience performing fabrication, assembly and/or testing
• Proactive problem-solving skills such as failure analysis, root cause investigation, and design of experiment creation
• Ability to perform trade studies using first principles and engineering fundamentals to make clear recommendations even with partial information
• Experience with rotating machinery
• Experienced in NX
• Solid understanding and application of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Experience with structural analysis methods (hand calcs, FEMAP, ANSYS) in order to optimize hardware to strength requirements as well as to evaluate for life and fracture
• Knowledge of metallic and fluid system manufacturing techniques, processes, equipment, and other processes such as machining, welding, brazing, tube bending, etc.
• Able to work well in an integrated collaborative team environment, including frequent interactions with technicians, other engineers, and managers
• Highly self-motivated with strong organizational and written/oral communication skills – able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment with the ongoing drive for continuous improvement in all aspects of work

Vast is looking for a Staff Test Engineer, Thermal Control Systems, reporting to the Manager, Thermal Test Engineering, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location.

Responsibilities: 

• Lead definition of hardware/software best practices and standardization for the wider test engineering organization.
• Own and drive the full lifecycle of assigned thermal control system test campaigns, from early concept development through execution, data analysis, and closeout, supporting both near-term and long-term space habitat missions.
• Act as a go-to technical resource and mentor, helping develop talent while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and data integrity.
• Collaborate closely with thermal design, analysis, systems, integration, and manufacturing teams to provide input on manufacturability, assembly, and testability of thermal hardware, including tubing, heat exchangers, cold plates, pumps, valves, heaters, and MLI.
• Lead cross-functional test initiatives and scoped projects, delivering everything from analytical assessments and case studies to the design, build, and instrumentation of complex, high-fidelity test environments and ground support equipment (GSE).
• Perform hands-on assembly, integration, instrumentation, and testing of thermal and fluid systems, ensuring compliance with engineering specifications, safety protocols, and industry standards.
• Develop, document, and maintain detailed test plans, CONOPs, procedures, work instructions, and manufacturing plans to ensure consistent, traceable, and repeatable execution of thermal system testing and assembly activities.
• Establish and enforce rigorous test traceability, documenting all phases of design, planning, execution, and post-processed data to ensure alignment with subsystem performance requirements and program-level milestones.
• Tackle complex technical challenges by performing deep root cause investigations, coordinating with technicians, engineers, suppliers, and leadership to implement robust, long-lasting corrective actions.
• Serve as a technical authority with suppliers, leading reviews and approvals of manufacturing and test processes to ensure timely delivery of high-quality thermal control components and test hardware.
• Provide senior technical input in design and test reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.), shaping decisions to improve manufacturability, testability, reliability, and overall system performance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying systemic opportunities to improve test efficiency, manufacturing yield, data quality, and overall program execution, and by influencing adoption across teams.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 15+ years of experience across thermal systems, fluid systems, manufacturing engineering, and/or test engineering in aerospace or similarly demanding environments.
• Strong foundation in fluid systems, including fluid mechanics, system design, P&IDs, test instrumentation and fittings, safety protocols, and troubleshooting methodologies.
• Experience developing test automation and data review tools for hardware test environments, including test execution, data acquisition, and post-test analysis.
• Demonstrated experience owning and executing complex test campaigns, from objective definition and CONOP development through GSE design, build, instrumentation, test execution, and data analysis.
• Proficiency in CAD software (such as Siemens NX) for reviewing designs, creating manufacturing and test documentation, and supporting hardware development.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional engineering initiatives and drive projects to on-time completion in fast-paced environments.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Hands-on experience developing, testing, or operating systems that utilize supercritical fluids, including an understanding of associated thermal, mechanical, and safety considerations.
• Advanced GD&T expertise, with experience creating, reviewing, and approving engineering drawings and ensuring intent is correctly translated into manufactured hardware.
• Deep technical understanding of thermal control hardware manufacturing and assembly processes, including fluid tubing, heat exchangers, cold plates, and MLI, with the ability to identify and resolve manufacturability risks.
• Experience leading and executing high-pressure and LN2 test operations, including serving as test conductor and providing technical oversight to test operators.
• Strong familiarity with aerospace test standards and codes (e.g., SMC-S-016, ASME B31.3), with demonstrated ability to interpret, apply, and enforce requirements in real-world test environments.
• Thorough understanding of the aerospace test lifecycle, including PDR, CDR, TRR, ATP, QTP, and related program milestones, with experience influencing technical decisions at each phase.
• Deep knowledge of data acquisition systems, sensor selection, signal diagnostics, and data analysis techniques, with the ability to assess data quality and guide others in proper implementation.
• Experience with paints, coatings, adhesives, and contamination-sensitive processes in an aerospace environment, including the ability to assess impacts to thermal and system performance.
• Multidisciplinary technical capability, with recognized depth in a primary discipline and effective working knowledge across controls, electronics, wiring, and instrumentation.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends as needed to support critical test campaigns and mission milestones.

Vast is looking for a Test Engineer II, Thermal Control Systems, reporting to the Manager, Thermal Test Engineering, to support the development of systems required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. 

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location.

At the heart of our artificial-gravity commercial space station program, the Thermal Test Engineering team takes full ownership of testing the hardware that keeps our Thermal Control Systems performing flawlessly. In this pivotal role, you’ll work cross-functionally to drive high-impact projects that are vital to the success of major test campaigns. 

You’ll design and execute  rigorous tests for components essential to the safety of future astronauts and passengers — and to the overall success of our mission. Your work will directly safeguard lives and enable humanity’s next giant leap in sustainable space habitation.

Responsibilities: 

• Own and drive the full lifecycle of assigned test campaigns for thermal systems and mission-critical components, leading strategic test initiatives that shape both near-term and long-term space habitat missions
• Lead cross-functional test initiative and scoped projects from concept to execution, delivering everything from targeted case studies and analytical assessments to the design, build, and instrumentation of complex, high-fidelity test environments
• Tackle the hardest technical challenges, performing deep root-cause investigations and coordinating with technicians, engineers, and leadership to implement robust, long-lasting corrective actions
• Establish and enforce rigorous test traceability, documenting every phase of design, planning, execution, and post-processed data to ensure alignment with subsystem performance and program level requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
• Strong foundation in fluid systems — including fluid mechanics and design, relevant test standards and best practices, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), test instrumentation and fittings, safety protocols, and troubleshooting methodologies
• Demonstrated experience owning and executing complex test campaigns, from defining objectives and Conop development through GSE design, build, instrumentation and on to operator training, test execution and data analysis
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional engineering projects, coordinating diverse stakeholders spearheading consensus building and project managing initiatives to successful, on-time completion
• A proactive, hands-on problem solver who thrives in dynamic, fast-paced environments and is comfortable operating autonomously to remove obstacles and deliver results
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information into clear, actionable insights for both engineering and non-technical audiences while also reconciling differing perspectives in a professional and pragmatic manner

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• 2+ years of proven success in rapidly designing, developing, and delivering highly reliable products
• 2+ years of hands-on expertise in building, testing, troubleshooting, and resolving fluid, mechanical, and electrical system issues
• Multidisciplinary capability — strong in a primary discipline (e.g., mechanical design, electronics, or controls) while possessing working knowledge across supporting fields, such as wiring, coding, CAD modeling, and machine drawing creation
• Experience with high pressure and LN2 test operations both as a test conductor and an operator.
• Understanding of common Data Analysis techniques sensor selection and signal diagnostics
• Knowledge of Data Acquisition hardware/design and harnessing design
• Familiarity with industry test standards (e.g., SMC-S-016, ASME B31.3) and the ability to apply them effectively in real-world test environments
• Understanding of the aerospace test lifecycle, including PDR, CDR, TRR, ATP, QTP, and other key program milestones
• Highly self-driven and organized, with outstanding written and verbal communication skills; able to prioritize, execute, and adapt under high-pressure conditions while continuously seeking improvement in all areas of work

Additional Requirements:

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

Pay Range: 

• Test Engineer II: $112,340 - $159,468
  

Vast is looking for a(n) TCS Technician, reporting to the Manager, Thermal Test Engineering, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations.

This will be a full-time, non-exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

Responsibilities: 

• Assemble, install, and test high-pressure fluid systems (including oxygen and refrigerants) and flight hardware.
• Operate test stands and execute procedures to validate pressure, temperature, flow, and leak integrity.
• Support in Thermal Vacuum, EMI, & Vibration testing
• Connect instrumentation, valves, and sensors per engineering schematics and activate systems validating health and functionality.
• Perform pneumatic, cryogenic, and hazardous fluid handling and testing demonstrating diligence and safety conscious practices.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and detailed work instructions.
• Use precision tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, and calipers, along with general mechanical tools independently.
• Use data acquisition systems to monitor and evaluate sensor readings.
• Identify, report, and assist in troubleshooting anomalies or test failures.
• Support/conduct test campaigns for development, qualification, acceptance, and investigations.
• Prepare and maintain clean, leak-free ground support fluid systems following industry standards.
• Support spacecraft operations including fueling and fluid line purging.
• Validate flight hardware prior to integration and launch.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of test equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness, consumables, tool control, and readiness of lab and workshop environments.
• Ensure safe, timely, and professional execution of all production tasks.
• Perform other related duties to support an efficient and effective work environment i.e. 5s, project updates, etc.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
• 2+ years of experience in hardware assembly, test, and/or installation of fluid systems.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience in aerospace, aviation, military, power and gas, or other high-reliability operating environments.
• Hands-on experience assembling and testing thermal control systems, propulsion systems, or similar hardware.
• Skilled in precision cleaning and assembly of precision-cleaned systems, including ISO 7 & ISO 8 cleanroom work.
• Background working with Developmental flight hardware in fast-paced production environments.
• Proficient in the use of hand tools, power tools, and machinery requiring manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Experience building, modifying, troubleshooting, maintaining, and operating high-pressure and hazardous systems (e.g., cryogenic, flammable, pyrophoric, hypergolic, or high voltage).
• Familiar with Electrical and fluid system schematics and able to identify and explain commonly used components.
• Experience with automation and control systems, including data acquisition systems and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
• Proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings(GD&T), manuals, and engineering documentation.
• Familiarity with relevant aerospace testing standards (e.g., SMC-S-016, MIL-STD-810G, GSFC-STD-7000B).
• Skilled in operating forklifts, cranes, and other heavy equipment.
• Competent with precision measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges, sensors).
• Strong team player with effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Adaptable to rapidly shifting roles and responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
• Experienced with JIRA, Confluence, and collaborative project managing  digital tools.
• Proficient in MS Office and Google Workspace applications.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be willing to work all shifts, overtime, and/or weekends as needed.
• Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs. unassisted.
• Must be able to climb ladders and be comfortable working in tight spaces.
• Must be willing to travel when needed from weeks at a time to support vehicle testing and integration (Mojave, Ohio, Florida).

Pay Range: 

• Technician II: $28.00 - $40.00