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Vast · 1 day ago

Test Technician

Long Beach, California, United States

Full-time

Onsite

Mid Level

$29.86/hr - $41.25/hr

3+ years exp

Vast is building artificial gravity space stations to enable long-term stays in space, with their first commercial space station, Haven-1, launching in 2026. They are seeking a Test Technician to support the development of systems necessary for these space stations, focusing on conducting tests and ensuring safety protocols are followed.

Defense & Space

Culture & Values

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Conduct hypervelocity impact tests using light gas gun and ballistic test equipment according to approved test plans and safety procedures

Set up, calibrate, and operate high-speed cameras, pressure sensors, vacuum systems, and other diagnostic equipment for test operation

Prepare test specimens, projectiles, sabots, and shielding configurations to precise specifications

Perform post-test inspections and damage assessments, documenting results through photography, measurements, and detailed written reports

Perform risk assessments, hazard analyses (JHAs/JHAs), and pre-task briefings prior to each test run

Maintain and perform routine preventative maintenance on light gas guns, vacuum chambers, and associated test range equipment

Execute all testing operations in strict compliance with range safety protocols, including pre-test safety checks following approved lockout/tagout procedures

Operate data acquisition systems and process test data for engineering analysis

Maintain accurate test logs, equipment maintenance records, and inventory of test materials and consumables

Support test planning activities by providing technical input on equipment capabilities, test setup requirements, and schedule feasibility

Collaborate with engineers and other technicians to troubleshoot equipment issues and improve test procedures

Maintain clean, organized, and safe test facilities in accordance with 5S principles

Qualification

Ballistic testingHypervelocity impact testingData acquisition systemsHigh-speed imaging systemsCAD softwareVacuum systemsAttention to detailProblem-solvingTeam collaborationTechnical documentation

Required

3+ years of hands-on technical experience in testing, laboratory, manufacturing, or related field

High school Diploma or equivalency certificate

Occasional ability to travel

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

Ability to lift up to 25lbs unassisted

Preferred

Experience with ballistic testing, hypervelocity impact testing, or materials testing operations

Familiarity with high-speed imaging systems and data acquisition software

Knowledge of vacuum systems, pressure vessels, or pneumatic/hydraulic equipment

Experience in aerospace, defense, or research laboratory environments

Understanding of impact physics, ballistics, or materials science fundamentals

Proficiency with CAD software (NX, SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for fixture design and test setup documentation

Strong attention to detail with excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation

Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional team

Logical problem-solving approach with ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical systems

Self-motivated with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced development environment

Demonstrated experience operating precision measurement instruments and mechanical test equipment

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and written procedures

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

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