Manager, Machining Engineering

Vast is looking for a Manager, Machining Engineering, reporting to the Senior Manager, Advanced Manufacturing, 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 and develop the machining engineering organization, including hiring, mentoring, and building a strong technical culture focused on accountability, innovation, and collaboration.
• Define and execute the machining strategy for the company, aligning capabilities, capacity, and technology roadmaps with program goals and future vehicle requirements.
• Drive technical excellence across machining processes, ensuring consistent quality, repeatability, and scalability through robust process control systems.
• Oversee and delegate project execution to staff and senior engineers, providing technical direction while empowering the team to take ownership of outcomes.
• Build and maintain a skills matrix for the machining team to identify development needs, close capability gaps, and ensure workforce readiness for upcoming programs.
• Establish and maintain engineering standards, specifications, and procedures to ensure AS9100D and NASA 6030 compliance across all machining operations.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, production, supply chain, and quality teams to ensure manufacturability, cost efficiency, and schedule alignment.
• Identify and integrate new technologies, including additive/subtractive hybrid systems, advanced materials, and automation, to expand internal capability and reduce lead times.
• Lead root cause analysis (RCA) and continuous improvement initiatives, promoting a data-driven, lean mindset across the organization.
• Represent the machining function at the executive and program level, providing strategic insight, capacity planning, and long-term resource forecasting.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Aerospace Engineering (or related field).
• 7+ years of experience in machining, manufacturing engineering, or precision hardware production, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership or management role.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Master’s degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering.
• Proven experience leading and developing engineering teams, including mentorship, performance management, and professional growth.
• Deep expertise in CNC machining, process optimization, and production scaling for high-precision components (e.g., aerospace, propulsion, or space hardware).
• Strong understanding of GD&T, process control, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to set strategy and delegate effectively while maintaining technical oversight.
• Strong familiarity with AS9100D and NASA 6030 standards.
• Experience with metal additive manufacturing and hybrid manufacturing systems.
• Track record of implementing lean manufacturing and data-driven process improvement.
• Proficiency with NX, SolidWorks, and manufacturing simulation/CAM software.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and presentation skills — able to influence across all organizational levels.
• Experience in propulsion hardware or flight-critical structure development.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work extended hours, evenings, or weekends to support mission-critical operations.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted.