Manager of Tube Fabrication

Vast is looking for a Manager, Tube Fabrication, reporting to the Sr. Manager of 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 the Tube Fabrication Manufacturing teams, overseeing Tube Bending and Orbital Tube Welding.
• Lead production schedules, program management, and test schedules from build to delivery to test.
• Collaborate with design teams to provide input on the manufacturability and assembly processes
• Collaborate with design teams and test teams to provide input on build test procedures
• Develop and implement process improvements: Analyze workflows, identify bottlenecks, and propose solutions to increase efficiency and productivity
• Create and maintain detailed manufacturing plans, assembly procedures, and work instructions to ensure consistent and accurate production of tube assemblies. 
• Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges by conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions. 
• Work closely with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of product, reviewing and approving supplier manufacturing processes. 
• Participate in design reviews, providing valuable insights to improve the manufacturability and reliability of tube assemblies. 
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to establish and maintain rigorous quality control processes for tube manufacturing. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality. 
• Meet tight production schedules to achieve high production rates while maintaining quality standards and be able to adapt to changing priorities in a fast moving environment. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Hands on experience with OTW and/or TIG welding 
• Solid track record of leading a high performing Tube Fabrication (or related teams such as propulsion or pressurized fluid systems)  Manufacturing team or in Aerospace or related fields
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Welding Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience  in manufacturing engineering of which at least 3+ years as a leader.
• Professional experience in a manufacturing environment working within a quality system such as AS9100, ISO9001, etc.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Strong understanding of fluid systems, propulsion systems, and human flight manufacturing and  assembly techniques. 
• Experience in CAD software (such as Siemens NX) for reviewing designs 
• Experience in creating manufacturing documentation (such as Standard Operating Procedures and Work Orders)
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations relevant to welding for space applications and cleanliness standards
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to perform root cause analysis. 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross- functional teams. 
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies is a plus. 
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted