Vast · 2 hours ago
Senior Manufacturing Engineer, Thermal Controls Systems
Long Beach, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$136K/yr - $176K/yr
5+ years expVast is developing next-generation space stations to ensure a continuous human presence in space for America and its allies. The Senior Manufacturing Engineer, Thermal Controls Systems will support the development of systems required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations.
Defense & Space
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Develop and optimize manufacturing processes and onboard equipment for environmental and thermal control systems, considering factors such as efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness
Design, fabricate, and activate ground support equipment and test articles in partnership with technicians, with a focus on pressurized ground systems
Operate, troubleshoot, repair, maintain, and modify manufacturing and testing equipment, including pressurized systems from vacuum to 20,000 psig, pneumatic and hydraulic, oxygen systems, refrigerant systems, and data and control systems
Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent and accurate production of thermal control systems
Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges by conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions
Collaborate with design teams to provide input on the manufacturability, assembly, and test processes of thermal and environmental hardware components such as tubing, heat exchangers, cold plates, pumps, fans, valves, heaters, filters and MLI
Work closely with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of high-quality components, reviewing and approving supplier manufacturing processes
Perform hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of components, ensuring compliance with engineering specifications and industry standards
Collaborate with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes for manufacturing
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality
Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in applicable manufacturing to drive innovation within the company
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
3 + 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in the aerospace or environmental and thermal control industry
Proficiency in CAD software (such as Siemens NX) for reviewing designs and creating manufacturing documentation
Comfortable working in a rapidly changing, ambiguous environment balancing multiple projects with flexibility
Excellent problem-solving skills, GD&T skills, and the ability to perform root cause analysis
Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work
Skilled in operation of machinery and various hand tools
Able to work effectively in a team environment
Ability to travel up to 10% of the time
Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted
Preferred
Strong understanding of fluid systems, tube manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques
Strong understanding of MLI manufacturing processes and assembly techniques
Experience working with paints, coatings, and adhesives in an aerospace context
Hands-on experience with sub-assemblies, testing, and troubleshooting fluid components is desirable
Skilled in operation of machinery and various hand tools
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.
501-1000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Max Haot
Chief Executive Officer
Alex Hudson
Chief Technology Officer
Recent News
2025-10-17
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2025-09-14
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