Lead Manufacturing Engineer, Environmental Control Systems

2 weeks ago


Long Beach, California, United States Vast Full time

At Vast, we are dedicated to paving the way for a future where humanity thrives beyond Earth. Our focus is on constructing artificial gravity space stations that facilitate extended habitation in space while mitigating the negative impacts of zero-gravity. Our flagship project, Haven-1, is set to be the first commercial space station, launching into low Earth orbit. Our team is fully committed to achieving our objectives safely and efficiently. If you aspire to collaborate with some of the brightest minds in advancing space exploration, we invite you to consider joining us.

Vast is seeking a Lead Manufacturing Engineer, Environmental Control Systems (ECLSS), who will report to the Director of ECLSS. This role is pivotal in the development of systems essential for the design and construction of human-rated artificial-gravity space stations.

This is a full-time, exempt position.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Enhance and refine manufacturing methodologies and onboard apparatus for environmental and thermal control systems, focusing on efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Design, construct, and activate ground support equipment and test articles in collaboration with technicians, emphasizing pressurized ground systems.
  • Manage, troubleshoot, repair, maintain, and modify manufacturing and testing apparatus, including pressurized systems from vacuum to 20,000 psig, pneumatic and hydraulic systems, oxygen systems, refrigerant systems, and data and control systems.
  • Develop and uphold comprehensive manufacturing plans, assembly protocols, and work instructions to guarantee consistent and precise production of thermal control systems.
  • Identify and address manufacturing obstacles through root cause analysis and implement corrective measures.
  • Work in conjunction with design teams to offer insights on the manufacturability, assembly, and testing processes of thermal and environmental hardware components, including tubing, heat exchangers, cold plates, pumps, fans, valves, heaters, filters, and MLI.
  • Engage closely with suppliers to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality components, reviewing and approving their manufacturing processes.
  • Participate in hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of components, ensuring adherence to engineering specifications and industry standards.
  • Collaborate with quality assurance teams to establish and uphold stringent quality control processes for manufacturing.
  • Contribute to ongoing improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiency, minimize waste, and elevate overall product quality.
  • Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in relevant manufacturing to foster innovation within the organization.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, ideally within the aerospace or environmental and thermal control sectors.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (such as Siemens NX) for evaluating designs and generating manufacturing documentation.
Preferred Skills & Experience:
  • Exceptional communication and collaboration abilities, with a proven track record of working effectively in cross-functional teams.
  • Meticulous attention to detail and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality results.
  • Proficient in GD&T, with experience in creating and reviewing technical drawings.
  • Solid understanding of fluid systems, tube manufacturing processes, and assembly techniques.
  • In-depth knowledge of MLI manufacturing processes and assembly techniques.
  • Experience with paints, coatings, and adhesives in an aerospace context.
  • Strong problem-solving capabilities and the ability to conduct root cause analysis.
  • Hands-on experience with testing and troubleshooting fluid components is advantageous.
  • Skilled in operating machinery and hand tools.
  • Able to thrive in a collaborative team environment.
  • Comfortable navigating a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing multiple projects with adaptability.
Additional Requirements:
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time.
  • Availability to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones.
  • Capability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted.
Compensation and Benefits:

Base salary will vary based on job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, business needs, and market demand. Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package. Full-time employees also receive company equity, along with access to a full suite of compelling benefits and perks, including: 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, flexible paid time off for exempt staff, and up to 15 days of vacation for non-exempt staff, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, free catered meals and snacks and beverages, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, One Medical membership, ClassPass credits, personalized mental healthcare through Spring Health, and other discounts and perks.

Equal Opportunity:

Vast is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vast is governed on the basis of merit, competence, and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

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