Staff Manufacturing Engineer, Thermal Control Systems

Vast is looking for a Staff Manufacturing Engineer, Thermal Control Systems (TCS) reporting to a Principal Manufacturing Engineer, 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: 

• 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 the Quality Assurance Team 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ 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.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• 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.
• Experience creating and reviewing drawings via NX and Teamcenter.

Additional Requirements:

• 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

Pay Range: Staff Manufacturing Engineer: $159,100 - $205,800