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Vast · 4 months ago

Test Engineer II, Thermal Control Systems

Long Beach, California, United States

Full-time

Onsite

Entry, Mid Level

$110K/yr - $142K/yr

2+ years exp

Vast is committed to contributing to a future where billions of people thrive in space through the development of artificial gravity space stations. They are seeking a Test Engineer II for Thermal Control Systems to design and execute tests for components critical to the safety of future astronauts, ensuring the success of their space habitation mission.

Defense & Space

Culture & Values

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Own the testing lifecycle for thermal systems and components critical to both near-term and long-term space habitat missions

Lead diverse deliverables — from targeted case studies and analytical assessments to the design, construction, and instrumentation of complex test environments

Solve complex challenges by performing in-depth root cause analyses and implementing effective, lasting corrective actions

Ensure rigorous traceability by documenting every phase of design, planning, testing, and data post-processing, aligning with all subsystem requirements and program life cycle milestones

Qualification

Fluid systems expertiseThermal Control SystemsData Acquisition hardwareAerospace Engineering degreeTest standards knowledgeExceptional communicatorMultidisciplinary capabilityProblem-solving skills

Required

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

Proven track record of leading complex projects from concept through successful completion

Thrives in a dynamic environment, excelling in fast-paced, autonomous, and entrepreneurial settings

Exceptional communicator, with excellent written and verbal skills for conveying complex technical concepts to both engineering and non-technical audiences

Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted

Preferred

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

Benefits

100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents

Flexible paid time off for exempt staff and up to 10 days of vacation for non-exempt staff

Paid parental leave

Short and long-term disability insurance

Life insurance

Access to a 401(k) retirement plan

One Medical membership

ClassPass credits

Personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health

Other discounts and perks

Exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee, cold drinks, and dinner meals remaining free of charge

Lunch subsidized as part of Vast’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality meals for employees

Company

Vast

Vast is developing next-generation space stations to ensure continuous human presence in space for America and its allies, enabling advanced microgravity research and manufacturing, and unlocking a new space economy for government, corporate, and private customers.

Founded in 2021

Long Beach, California, US

501-1000 employees